The tech to 3D-print a home has existed for years. So why aren’t our neighbourhoods full of them?
“Additive construction is inherently a more sustainable method of construction.”
3D printing, also known as additive construction, promises a faster and more sustainable way to build that could help address Canada’s housing crisis. But building codes, testing requirements, and industry realities have slowed adoption.
Aretek is working to change that.
Based in Markham, Ont., Aretek has built a business operating system that supports the deployment of 3D-printed concrete printing (3DCP) in the construction industry. Known as Aretek.OS, the company’s flagship offering is not a software platform nor a 3D printer. Instead, it is a structured service for developers that combines the tech, engineering workflows, quality protocols, and regulatory compliance work required to move from building design to occupancy.
Traditional construction requires assembling distinct components like studs and blocks piece by piece. 3DCP creates walls by continuously depositing concrete along a digitally programmed path.
Many studies have found that 3DCP is a faster and more sustainable alternative to traditional building methods since it produces less waste, has lower energy demands, and improves the efficiency of the building process.
“Additive construction is inherently a more sustainable method of construction, and Aretek is actively developing sustainable mixes and structural designs that reduce material usage,” said Aretek CEO and co-founder Leigh Newman.
Aretek started under the name Printerra in 2022, founded by Newman and company president Yafes Gabuji. The startup began as the 3D printing arm of construction company Leostar Development Group, using printers designed by Denmark-based Cobod.
Despite growing excitement around the technology, additive construction still has much groundwork to lay for widespread adoption. All buildings must adhere to legally binding codes that ensure safety, fire protection, and accessibility, among other standards.
“The core challenge with additive construction is that no formal standards exist for 3DCP walls,” Newman said.
Rather than waiting for new regulations, the startup chose to work within the codes that already exist. Relying on masonry standards for block construction, the team designed and tested a 3D-printed wall system, which was granted Ontario’s first Part 4 Alternative Solution Permit. The system will be used for a multi-storey, net-zero student housing building at the University of Windsor.
“Once the Windsor project is completed, it sets a meaningful precedent,” Newman said. “Other municipalities will have the confidence to follow suit, with the ability to approve new projects utilizing the same substantiation established for the structural components of the Windsor build.”
After several years focused on finding pathways to regulation and adoption, Printerra changed its name to Aretek this month, based on the Ancient Greek concept of “Arete,” which refers to the pursuit of excellence.
“Printerra implied we were simply a printing company, whereas Aretek broadens that vision to reflect our true mission: accelerating the adoption of additive construction across the wider industry,” Newman added.
Today, Aretek conducts research and training at a dedicated facility on York University’s Markham campus. Through a multi-year research partnership with the university, the company is also developing lower-cement concrete mixes and refining the structural design of its 3D-printing building components. Aretek will provide its research findings to regulators to help establish dedicated standards for 3D concrete construction.
“The core challenge with additive construction is that no formal standards exist.”
The company also delivers training to traditional construction workers transitioning to 3DCP. The programming teaches workers how to operate the printers, use pumping systems, position equipment, read digital files, and follow safety protocols that are unique to additive construction equipment.
Newman said Aretek’s work with York University was central to securing the permit for the student housing project in Windsor.
“Beyond the research itself, York has connected us with their YSpace accelerator program, Osgoode Law, and a broader network of contacts within the startup and technology ecosystem,” Newman said.
He sees partnerships like this as part of what makes Markham a “natural home” for Aretek’s work.
“Markham has proven to be an excellent location to grow our business,” he said. “Its central position within the Greater Toronto Area, combined with easy highway access, has been essential for servicing customers, conducting research operations, and supporting our team’s daily commute.
The city’s high concentration of tech firms and proximity to major universities and accelerators have also created a strong network for growing companies like Aretek. As the startup continues to refine its product and push for new standards in 3DCP, Newman sees that culture of support as another reason the company continues to build in Markham.
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Feature image courtesy City of Markham.