The Future of Construction Materials: Trends in Division 8 & 10 for 2025
The construction industry is rapidly evolving, with new materials and technologies reshaping the way general contractors approach Division 8 and Division 10 materials. From sustainability initiatives to digital integration, staying ahead of these trends is essential for contractors and project managers who want to optimize efficiency and ensure compliance with evolving standards.
In 2025, the construction materials landscape is being driven by five key trends: sustainability, prefabrication, digital tools, advanced composites, and circular economy principles. Understanding these innovations can help general contractors improve project timelines, reduce costs, and enhance building performance.
1. The Rise of Sustainable and Bio-Based Materials
Sustainability is no longer a niche concern—it’s a necessity. Regulatory changes and green building certifications, such as LEED and WELL, are pushing contractors to adopt eco-friendly materials.
Key innovations include:
Bio-based materials like hempcrete and mycelium-based insulation, which offer high durability with a lower carbon footprint.
Recycled and repurposed materials that support a circular economy approach, reducing landfill waste and promoting resource efficiency.
Low-emission coatings and adhesives that improve indoor air quality while maintaining performance standards.
Sustainable construction is no longer just a trend—it’s a proven way to cut costs and improve efficiency. Eco-conscious material choices not only reduce environmental impact but also give contractors a competitive edge by lowering long-term maintenance and operational expenses.
2. Prefabrication and Modular Construction
Time is money in construction, and prefabrication is a game-changer for Division 8 and 10 materials. By manufacturing doors, frames, partitions, and restroom accessories off-site, contractors can reduce on-site labor needs, minimize errors, and speed up installation.
How it benefits Division 8 & 10 projects:
Increased efficiency: Prefab materials arrive ready for quick installation, reducing delays.
Quality control: Factory-controlled conditions improve consistency and precision.
Cost savings: Less waste, fewer labor hours, and optimized logistics mean a lower total cost.
Modular construction is transforming the industry by significantly reducing project timelines and overall costs. Prefabricated components allow for faster assembly, minimizing delays and labor expenses while ensuring higher quality control.
3. Digital Integration: BIM and Smart Technologies
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is becoming the industry standard for managing construction materials. With BIM, contractors can plan, track, and coordinate Division 8 and 10 materials in a way that minimizes waste and errors.
Emerging digital trends include:
BIM integration for accurate project modeling and material coordination.
AI-powered procurement systems that predict lead times and order materials proactively.
Smart locks, access control, and sensor-equipped partitions that enhance security and energy efficiency.
By embracing digital tools, general contractors can reduce rework costs, improve project transparency, and enhance collaboration among stakeholders.
4. Advanced Composite Materials for Strength and Durability
Traditional materials like steel and aluminum are being supplemented (or even replaced) by high-performance composites that offer greater durability at a lower weight.
Notable innovations include:
Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) for doors and frames, offering corrosion resistance and high strength.
Self-healing materials that use embedded microcapsules to repair minor cracks, extending material lifespan.
Lightweight yet fire-resistant paneling and partitions, improving both safety and structural integrity.
Lightweight composite materials are revolutionizing construction by reducing overall building weight and enhancing structural efficiency. This shift leads to lower transportation costs, easier installation, and improved durability without compromising strength.
5. Circular Economy: Reuse, Recycling, and Material Efficiency
Sustainability efforts are expanding beyond just using green materials—contractors are now looking at how materials can be repurposed, refurbished, or recycled at the end of their lifecycle.
Key shifts include:
Material banks, where surplus construction materials are cataloged and reused in future projects.
Take-back programs for doors, hardware, and partitions, ensuring responsible disposal and recycling.
Deconstruction instead of demolition, allowing materials to be salvaged and reintegrated into new builds.
As regulatory bodies push for waste reduction goals, integrating circular economy principles into Division 8 and 10 projects will be crucial for contractors looking to maintain compliance and appeal to environmentally conscious clients.
The Takeaway: Staying Ahead of Industry Shifts
For general contractors and project managers, adapting to these Division 8 and 10 material trends isn’t just about compliance—it’s about gaining a competitive edge. By leveraging sustainable materials, embracing prefabrication, adopting digital tools, utilizing advanced composites, and incorporating circular economy principles, contractors can streamline projects, reduce costs, and enhance long-term building performance.
At Kircher Materials, we stay ahead of the curve, providing industry-leading solutions for Division 8 and 10 materials. If you’re planning a project and want to ensure the highest efficiency and quality, contact us today.