Key Takeaways
See how myABCsupply, ABC Connect and other construction technology tools can help contractors get more done on the jobsite:
- Improve safety, communication and jobsite efficiency with mobile field and safety apps.
- Boost productivity with cordless tools, smart tracking systems and connected equipment.
- Streamline estimating, ordering and delivery with myABCsupply to cut errors and speed up workflows.
- Adopt newer tools like AI estimating, 3D laser scanning, augmented reality and smart wearables to help contractors work faster and safer.
More contractors are turning to construction technology to boost jobsite productivity, improve safety and avoid costly delays. Whether you’re working on a new construction project or upgrading an existing home, the right tools help contractors streamline their work and keep projects on track.
Wondering which tools will make the biggest difference in 2026? AI estimating software, reality capture (drones and 3D laser scanning), augmented reality, smart wearables, cordless and connected tools, and material-ordering platforms like myABCsupply are leading the way. Check out the table below for examples, and keep reading to see how contractors are putting these tools to work.
At a Glance: 9 Construction Technology Tools and How They Help
TOOL/ CATEGORY
BEST FOR
EXAMPLE TOOLS
Mobile field & safety apps
Safety compliance, less paperwork
AI estimating & project management
Faster takeoffs, fewer errors
Reality capture (drones & 3D scanning)
Accurate measurements & as-builts
Thermal imaging cameras
Finding hidden moisture & gaps
Weather tracking software
Scheduling & storm response
Wearables, smart helmets & exoskeletons
Worker safety & reduced strain
Cordless & smart connected tools
Speed, mobility, tool tracking
Material ordering platforms
Ordering & delivery visibility
Estimating & workflow software
Faster, connected proposals
Let’s take a closer look at each of the nine tools, what they do and how contractors are using them on the jobsite.
1. Mobile Apps for Construction Safety
Best for: Improving safety compliance and reducing paperwork
One of the most useful tools for running a safe jobsite is probably already in your pocket. Free and low-cost construction safety apps help keep your crew aligned while cutting paperwork and delays. Popular options include SafetyCulture and Fieldwire, which handle safety inspections, incident reports and onsite access to project data. Builders use them to coordinate large crews across a site, while remodelers rely on them to document existing conditions and keep homeowners in the loop.
What this means for builders and remodelers: You can improve jobsite safety, reduce paperwork and keep your crew aligned with real-time updates from anywhere
2. AI-Powered Estimating and Project Management Software
Best for: Faster takeoffs, smarter scheduling and fewer estimating errors
Artificial intelligence is changing the game in construction technology. Today’s AI tools can automate quantity takeoffs, generate proposals and flag schedule or budget risks before they become bigger issues. With the industry needing an estimated 349,000 new people in 2026, AI helps contractors get more done without having to grow your team.
You’ll also find AI in tools built just for residential contractors. Some apps can turn a single photo of a house into an instant roof or siding measurement, while AI assistants draft proposals and follow up with leads, taking repetitive work off your crew’s plate. Popular AI estimating platforms such as XBuild, Roofr and Leap turn photos and measurement reports into proposals with real-time pricing.
Why it matters: You can produce faster, more accurate estimates, win more bids and keep projects on schedule even when skilled labor is hard to find.
3. Reality Capture: Drones and 3D Laser Scanning
Best for: Faster measurements, accurate as-built capture and safer inspections
Reality capture is a catch-all term for tools that turn real-world site conditions into accurate digital measurements and 3D models. For most contractors, drones and 3D laser scanners are the go-to options, working together to document a site from above and on the ground.
Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles, capture real-time images and measurements from above. Aerial imaging speeds up a job by getting accurate specs of the work and helping you give customers more proactive updates.
You can also use drones to inspect a roof remotely, which helps you avoid injury risks and prevents extra damage from climbing up yourself.
On the ground, 3D laser scanners, now compact enough to be handheld or built into a smartphone, capture millions of measurement points in minutes and feed them into a digital model. For remodelers, that means fast, accurate as-built scans of an existing structure before demo, which reduces surprises and costly rework. For builders, the same scans support digital twins that track progress and compare site conditions against the plan. Popular reality-capture tools include Eagleview, GAF QuickMeasure, Roofr and Hover, which turn aerial images and photos into measurement reports you can order from directly.
The payoff: You can capture accurate measurements faster, reduce safety risks and give customers more detailed, professional estimates.
4. Thermal Imaging Cameras for Early Issue Detection
Best for: Detecting hidden moisture, insulation gaps and equipment issues
Thermal imaging cameras help teams find hidden defects, head off equipment failure and improve safety without tearing into a structure. The camera reads surface temperature differences to reveal trapped moisture, missing insulation and air leaks behind finished surfaces. For remodelers, that is a fast way to spot water damage or insulation gaps before quoting a job. For builders, it doubles as a quality check on insulation and weatherproofing before close-in. Brands like FLIR and Seek Thermal make models that clip onto a smartphone, and advanced thermal systems can tie into jobsite security for continuous monitoring.
What this means and why it matters for contractors: You can catch hidden problems early, avoid costly callbacks and offer customers added value through diagnostic insight.
5. Weather Tracking Software for Construction Jobsite Planning
Best for: Planning schedules and capturing post-storm opportunities
Your ability to prepare for and respond to storm damage work after severe weather can have a real impact on your bottom line. Storm-tracking programs predict, track and alert you to severe weather with a high degree of accuracy, so you can protect open work and respond fast. Popular options for contractors include HailTrace, Perry Weather, UBIMET and Baron Threat Net. Builders use the forecasts to schedule pours, deliveries and exterior work around the weather, while remodelers and roofers use the alerts to line up repair work as soon as a storm passes.
What this means for contractors: You can plan schedules with more confidence and minimize weather-related delays.
6. Wearables, Smart Helmets and Exoskeletons
Best for: Protecting your crew and reducing fatigue-related injuries
Wearable technology brings real-time safety monitoring to every team member. Smart helmets and vests use biometric sensors to flag fatigue and heat stress, GPS geofencing warns crews when they enter a hazardous zone and exoskeletons take strain off the body during repetitive lifting and overhead work. Tools like Kenzen, WakeCap and SUITX are already in use on jobsites. Contractors using wearables have reported up to 27% fewer workplace incidents according to Industrial Build News.
Bottom line: You can prevent injuries, lower insurance and downtime costs, and keep your crew safe and productive.
7. Cordless Power Tools and Smart Tool Tracking Systems
Best for: Increasing efficiency, mobility and tool accountability on the jobsite.
Having the right tools for the job is one of the simplest ways to gain efficiency. These tools help your crew keep up with the demands of the work:
- Core cordless tools: Cordless roofing nailers, cap nail guns, shingle removers and powered metal shears help you work faster and safer than with manual tools.
- Battery systems: Unified battery platforms, like those from DeWalt, offer portable, fast-charging power that lets crews run a full site without cords.
- Smart tools: Connected systems like Milwaukee ONE-KEY let you track tool locations, manage inventory and customize tool settings from a mobile app.
What this means for contractors: You can work more efficiently, reduce downtime and keep better control of tools and equipment across every job.
8. Construction Material Ordering and Delivery Management Platforms
Best for: Streamlining material ordering and delivery visibility
Your crew and customers count on you to know the status of every project, but keeping up with orders and deliveries is hard when you are moving from one job to the next. A platform like myABCsupply connects estimating, ordering and delivery in one place. With myABCsupply, you can:
- Request measurement reports and turn them into orders.
- Order materials online or through the ABC Supply app.
- Track deliveries with status updates and proof-of-delivery photos.
- Manage your accounts, view statements and pay invoices.
- Arrange product returns.
Better material management leads to faster builds, fewer delays and more profitable jobs.
Why it matters: You can streamline ordering, avoid delays and see exactly where your materials and deliveries stand.
9. Construction Estimating and Workflow Software for Contractors
Best for: Reducing estimating errors and speeding up proposals
From measurement to proposal to order, connected estimating and workflow platforms let contractors move faster without double entry. Many integrate directly with ABC Supply through ABC Connect, so estimates, pricing and orders stay in sync. Here are some things to know:
- AccuLynx: Estimate costs, order products, manage project details and communicate with your team.
- Contractor+: Create estimates, build material lists and access ABC Supply pricing directly within your contractor workflow platform.
- Roof Flow Pro: Roofing CRM and estimating platform that connects contractors to ABC Supply catalog data, pricing and material ordering.
- Hover: Create accurate 3D property models and measurements that feed estimating, takeoffs and ordering workflows.
- Roofr: Convert measurement reports into proposals with real-time ABC Supply pricing.
- XBuild: AI-powered estimating that turns photos and measurement reports into homeowner-ready proposals with real-time ABC Supply pricing.
- JobNimbus: A roofing-focused CRM that adds speed, accuracy and visibility across projects.
- ServiceTitan: Accurate product catalogs, pricing and order status for roofing and exterior contractors.
- Leap: Real-time pricing, one-click ordering and all-in-one project management.
- ABC API: Access real-time product, pricing and location data and place orders directly from your own software.
What this means for contractors: You can create faster, more accurate estimates, cut manual errors and connect your whole workflow from measurement to payment.
Construction Technology Is Helping Contractors Stay Competitive
Contractors who adopt connected tools, real-time data and integrated ordering systems can finish jobs faster, lower their risk and improve profitability. Platforms like myABCsupply and ABC Connect tie these tools together, giving you better visibility and control across every project.
Construction Technology Tools FAQs
What is the latest technology in construction in 2026?
The top construction technology tools for 2026 include mobile field and safety apps, AI estimating and project management software, reality capture (drones and 3D laser scanning), thermal imaging cameras, augmented reality, weather tracking software, smart wearables, cordless and connected tools, and material-ordering and estimating platforms. These tools help contractors work safely, cut delays and boost productivity.
What technology do contractors use to increase productivity?
Contractors use mobile safety apps, AI estimating and takeoff software, drones and 3D laser scanning for measurements, augmented reality for design and client visualization, thermal imaging to detect hidden issues, smart wearables, cordless and connected tools, and material management and workflow platforms.
What are the most important tools for a construction jobsite?
Many contractors rely on smart, cordless tools such as powered roofing nailers, unified battery systems that reduce charging downtime and connected tools that offer location tracking, inventory management and performance monitoring.
How do drones help contractors?
Drones capture real-time images and measurements of a jobsite from the air. Contractors use them to measure roofing jobs and prepare estimates without the safety risk of climbing on a roof.
What software platforms do contractors use for estimating?
Popular estimating and workflow platforms include AccuLynx, Roofr, XBuild, JobNimbus, ServiceTitan and Leap. Many integrate with ABC Supply through ABC Connect and myABCsupply, so pricing and orders stay in sync.
How is AI used in construction?
AI automates quantity takeoffs, generates estimates and proposals, and predicts schedule and budget risks before they become problems. For residential contractors, it can even turn a photo of a house into an instant measurement and draft customer proposals. Both builders and remodelers use AI to work faster and offset the skilled-labor shortage.
What technology do remodelers use?
Remodelers use mobile field and safety apps, AI estimating tools, 3D laser scanning to capture accurate as-builts of existing structures, augmented reality to help clients picture finished spaces, thermal imaging to find hidden moisture and insulation gaps, and material-ordering platforms like myABCsupply to keep projects on schedule.
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