A Sustainability Approach to the Selection of Construction Methods

One of the challenges that construction project decision-makers face in the early stages of programming is deciding on the construction methods for building elements. Decisions about construction methods are still primarily based on personal assumptions and experiences, with no compelling reason. The measurements for selecting construction methods (prefabrication and on-site construction) have not yet been explained in the scientific literature of the Iranian context and from the standpoint of sustainability. This research aims to provide a solution to this problem. To that end, ۲۶ criteria were identified, and a survey was conducted to experts in the construction industry in Tehran. The responses were subjected to an exploratory factor analysis test to identify the common factors that explain the structure among measured variables. Then confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the relationship between the factors and their impact on selecting proper construction methods. Results reveal that the construction and operating costs, constructability, quality performance, and environmental improvement factors influence the construction method selection. The first-order model suggests these factors are highly correlated and crucial for stakeholders to decide on the best construction solution. The second-order model confirms the relationship between construction methods and the social and environmental aspects of buildings. This is significant since adopting sustainable solutions often results in an increased financial burden. Together with Iran's construction quality issues, these findings confirm the research's argument that selecting the appropriate construction method is not supported by proper measurements, and the identified factors assist in resolving this issue. This study helps decision-makers in regarding a better balance between economic, social, and environmental concerns. The findings support their decisions in making more comprehensive decisions with the least amount of quantitative data and can be used qualitatively in many cases in the construction process.

Keywords:

Sustainable Construction , Construction Methods , Prefabrication , On-site Construction