PRINTING HOPE: ADDRESSING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING CRISIS

Abstract

In the United States, there is a shortage of 7 million affordable homes, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition Report, and research predicts the housing crisis will worsen over time if the construction processes remain the same due to the population increase and cities' urbanization. The report also states that between 2019 and 2021, the pandemic worsened the affordable housing crisis by raising the need for homes by half a million. The current construction process is expensive and requires proper funding to develop homes to keep up with the housing demand. It also requires the need for multiple skilled laborers, which has been decreasing over time. This thesis will explore how using 3D printing could be a solution for creating more quality, affordable neighborhoods that are also sustainable and resilient. Some benefits of 3D printing technology in the construction field are rapid construction time, lower construction costs, tight thermal envelope, less waste of materials, very few laborers required for construction, and much more. It will also investigate ways in which 3D printing dwellings can create an environment that is best for the well-being of its residents by elevating the standards provided by code regulations of the built environment.