Canadian construction companies are turning to robotics and automation to address a critical labor shortage in the housing sector, with several innovative projects launching across the country in early 2025.

At a construction site in Gananoque, Ontario, developer Horizon Legacy has deployed 'Val,' a concrete-laying robot capable of lifting 440 pounds and performing the work of approximately 20 tradespeople [1]. The robot, operated by a small crew of technicians, represents a significant step toward automation in residential construction.

The adoption of robotics comes as the industry faces significant challenges. The Canadian Home Builders' Association reports that 22% of residential construction workers will retire within the next decade, while an RBC study indicates Canada needs 500,000 additional construction workers by 2030 to meet housing demands [1].

Promise Robotics, a Canadian AI company, has expanded its presence with a new 60,000-square-foot facility in Calgary, scheduled to begin operations in summer 2025. The facility will offer a 'factory-as-a-service' model, capable of producing up to 1,000,000 square feet of housing annually [1]. The company claims its automated systems can complete construction elements 60% faster than traditional methods.

In Sudbury, researchers at Laurentian University's McEwen School of Architecture are developing a robot capable of handling wall panel installation through machine vision technology [2]. This development addresses particular challenges in northern regions, where construction seasons are limited by longer winters.

Industry leaders acknowledge that while initial investment in robotics is substantial, the technology is becoming more accessible. CHBA CEO Kevin Lee predicts wider adoption as costs decrease, though he notes the industry's traditional structure of smaller companies has historically limited technological investment [1].