What materials can be used in 3D-Printed construction? Mike Holmes Talks Innovative Materials for Smarter, Greener Builds
3D-printed construction is changing not only how we build, but what we build with. One of the most common materials used is a specially formulated concrete, designed to be strong, fast-setting, and ideal for layering in precise patterns. But innovation in this space is moving fast.
Mike Holmes discusses recycling or “regenerating plastic” with Randy Janes, owner and lead operator at Wave of the Future 3D, into other products, not using water but a 4 stage dehydration process capable of producing highway barriers, curb barriers, paving stones, garbage cans, and planters, for the local community —all while decreasing the carbon footprint.
Listen to Season 5, Episode 5 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, “Could 3D Printing Solve Big Problems in Construction—Faster & Cheaper”, launching Thursday, May 15 on all podcast streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.
Recycled plastics are becoming a popular alternative, offering a sustainable way to repurpose waste into durable building materials. There’s also growing interest in biocomposites, which combine natural fibres like hemp, flax, or wood with resins. These materials are not only eco-friendly, but they also tend to be lightweight, thermally efficient, and resistant to mould and pests.
As a strong supporter of using smarter, greener materials. “When we talk about building better, it’s not just about how we build, it’s about what we build with,” Mike Holmes says. “Using materials like recycled plastics or sustainable composites in 3D printing is a huge step forward. It’s helping us tackle waste and rethink construction from the ground up.”
The benefits go beyond sustainability. Many of these materials are more cost-effective, easier to transport, and faster to work with than traditional building supplies. As 3D printing continues to evolve, we’re likely to see even more innovation in materials, paving the way for structures that are not only built faster, but smarter and greener too.
From concrete to biocomposites, 3D printing is ushering in a new era of construction —one focused on performance, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
Listen to Season 5, Episode 5 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, “Could 3D Printing Solve Big Problems in Construction—Faster & Cheaper”, launching Thursday, May 15 on all podcast streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.
Listen to Season 5 of Mike Holmes’s Holmes on Homes Podcast
The Holmes on Homes podcast with Mike Holmes takes you inside the world of construction, renovations, and the skilled trades—breaking down what it really takes to build it right. But it’s also about the bigger mission: helping people live better, stay safer, and feel more confident about their homes. With expert guests, practical tips, and real-life stories, Mike brings clarity, honesty, and decades of experience to every episode—whether you’re swinging a hammer or just trying to understand the basics.
Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes is available on all podcast streaming platforms, including Mike Holmes’ YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
About Mike Holmes
Mike HolmesMike Holmes is a popular TV host on HGTV, best known for his shows Holmes on Homes and Holmes Inspection. With his extensive expertise in construction and home renovation, Mike helps homeowners tackle challenging projects, ensuring quality, safety, and integrity in every build. He is a trusted industry icon.
