When it comes to renovations, improvements or projects from scratch, the choice of construction materials will largely determine the process and quality of a project. From the base materials to the material of choice to improve a wall, ceiling or roof, we break down the five common building materials found on the site along with their benefits because a well-informed contractor and builder knows to choose the construction material correct means to improve and extending the life of the construction.
Wood
This construction material has been used for thousands of years. From structural support to foundation, wood has a rich and vibrant history with regard to construction and the architect. Wood is one of the most natural materials available, not to mention one that can be profitable.
While some may think that it is not a strong building material, it is strong and durable. It is a construction material that is flexible in every way: by having it folded and cured, the wood can be molded to fit the structure and shape of the building.
What makes wood an option and a common material, apart from its longevity in the industry, is a highly sustainable material for the environment that is aesthetically attractive. It can be used in both commercial and residential buildings and can be complemented with other materials as well. Whether steel, marble or aluminum, wood works well with other materials, although it is not aesthetic but also functional.
Use the wood for a frame, complete it with an access panel, be it an air conditioning system, soundproofing or valve box, whatever the need or the purpose, the wood can be easily accompanied and improve its functionality.
Steel
To date, steel is one of the most used materials in construction, from the skeleton of a building to the actual materials found in the interior. Security access panels are also made of steel and can be commonly found in commercial and industrial spaces.
Steel offers many advantages, for example, it can be bent or handled without risking its strength and durability. In areas that experience extreme winds or are prone to earthquakes, steel structures are able to withstand tremor through their durability and in some way is plasticity.
A fall of steel as a building material or even any material is that it is highly susceptible to decomposition in conditions of extreme heat. It is not fire resistant and, depending on the level of the steel, at a certain heat temperature, it begins to lose strength and durability and may collapse or break.
Concrete
Concrete, or as it is better known by contractors and builders, reinforced concrete is composed of steel, which makes it very resistant. It is normally used in the structure and foundations of a building: once it has been applied, it will take several hours before it settles and hardens.
When it comes to concrete, similar to many construction materials such as access panels, windows and paints, concrete comes in several types. From high performance to lightweight concrete and water resistant, a contractor will know what is the ideal concrete to use and recommend in a project.
Glass
For someone who has no experience in construction, you might think that glass should simply be used for windows; however, glass is a versatile and underestimated building material. One of the most commonly used types of glass was obsidian because of its aesthetic appeal and its resistance. Considered a luxury in the construction industry, since it requires skill and resources to create it.
In construction, glass can be used as a means of facades from windows to walls, beams and floors, which would require exceptional strength and durability. When it comes to the properties of this unique construction material, some features include transparency, resistance and workability. Just as many materials in construction come with various purposes and types, glass also comes in different shapes and materials.
Stone
Aesthetically attractive, stone is a common material choice for floors and walls. The texture of the stone makes it versatile, from a smooth finish to a textured stone it can also come in many different colors. Some examples of stone used in construction include granite, marble and sandstone.
Depending on the purpose and use of the stone, it is a very expensive material option. When it comes to marble countertops, quality, color and its manufacture can increase the cost and time to create it.
Combining materials to finish the job
When it comes to construction, it is the use of different materials and products that can improve and strengthen the finished work. From the framing to the base, no job is complete and much less a success without taking advantage of the benefits of various materials such as wood, steel and concrete, and the fusion of both. Take, for example, the access panels: access panels are a combination of purposes, such as a door and a window, and we create what we know as the panel. The materials that form the access panel are also a combination of metal and insulation, which improves its purpose and versatility.
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