Investigating the barriers to laser scanning implementation in building refurbishment

Abstract

The use of the laser scanning technique has increased rapidly in the field of built environment, mainly because it produces highly accurate as-built data. However, the full potential of this technique is utilised only limitedly in building refurbishment projects. This research aims to investigate the barriers to the implementation of laser scanning in building refurbishment projects in Finland. Qualitative interviews were carried out to identify these barriers, and furthermore, to explore the current usage of the technique in building refurbishments. The study shows that many obstacles to implementations are related to challenges in laser scanning procurement, including a low level of competence in acquisition, limitations of the laser scanning technique in building refurbishments, and limitations and challenges in utilising the data in design work. This study is beneficial for building owners and practitioners as it presents the challenges and advantages that laser scanning can provide a refurbishment project. In addition, it offers suggestions to improve the early phase of a refurbishment project in order to achieve greater benefits with laser scanning. Furthermore, the findings may be utilised in the procurement process of laser scanning services in such projects, and the results may potentially solve practical challenges encountered in laser scanning work.