Building Materials - What They Are and Its Types: A Guide

 

INTRODUCTION

With the right construction equipment and materials, building a home is an easy feat. This doesn’t mean that there aren’t plenty of things to think about, though. Different types of construction materials can have a huge impact on the look and feel of your new home. Think about where you plan to live and how much space you have available to build. Your location also has a lot to do with it; rural homes tend to lean more towards natural materials like wood rather than concrete or brick. Here we’ll take a brief look at some common types of materials used in construction and how they affect the looks, cost, maintenance, and overall value of new homes throughout the country.

What Are the Different Types of Building Materials?

The building industry uses a variety of terms to describe the various building materials that are used when building a new home. The most common types of materials you’ll see listed are concrete, wood, and brick. But there are also other materials that are used very rarely, such as asphalt shingles, brick veneer, and metal siding. This will vary by location and climate, of course, so always check with a contractor or homeowner’s guide before making any decisions based on these materials alone.

Wood

Wood is among the oldest building materials still in use. In fact, it is estimated that more than 90% of human history was spent in the construction of wooden buildings. Although wood is an inexpensive material, it has many advantages. It is easy to work with, can be cut and shaped with a saw, and is highly durable. Although it is a natural material, it is treated with chemicals and contains elements that make it fire resistant.

Concrete

Concrete is a mixture of materials that becomes strong when it is wet. It is also known as “cement” or “Portland” concrete because it was invented in Portland, Oregon. Portland cement is what gives concrete its strength and durability. Concrete is a very strong building material. When poured, it is usually white, but it will turn darker as it absorbs water from the air. Concrete is inexpensive and easy to work with. However, it is heavy, so it is not suitable for some applications, such as boat hulls.

Brick and Tile

Brick and tile are probably the oldest building materials still in use today. These materials were commonly used for walls and roofs in older homes, but they can also be found in renovated older apartments, offices, and commercial buildings. Brick is made of clay mixed with other elements, creating soil that’s rich in minerals, including silica. When mixed with water, clay forms strong bricks that look and feel like natural stone. Tile is a thin, flat piece of clay used for roofing and walls. Concrete, brick, and tile are all natural materials, which means they will age and change over time. This is especially noticeable on concrete driveways, walkways, and patios, which tend to become darker and smoother over time. Maintenance is generally low for these materials, too; they can be cleaned with a garden hose or pressure washer.

Putty

Putty is a mixture of cement, sand, and gravel that is used to bind the brick joints and mortar of masonry walls together. It is often applied to the outer surface of masonry walls and can be brushed, troweled, or roller smoothed to help smooth the surface. Maintenance is generally low for these materials, too; they can be cleaned with a garden hose or pressure washer.

Insulation

Insulation is an important component of many construction projects, especially retro-fitting older homes to make them more energy efficient. Insulation is used between the walls of a house to keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Insulation will affect the overall cost and look of a home project, as well as its energy efficiency. When purchasing insulation, keep in mind that it usually comes in rolls, sheets, and batt insulation, which is intended to be used in specific ways.

Roofing Material

Roofing is one of the most important pieces of any home. It protects the walls, floor, and other components from the elements, including water and ice. Roofing can be made from many materials, including shingles, shakes, tiles, and various membranes. Many roofing materials are also used as part of other building projects, such as asphalt shingles, which are also used as siding. The durability of roofing is typically measured in a lifetime and will generally be given as an average. Depending on the type of roofing material used, roofing maintenance may also be required.

Conclusion

Construction projects are quite challenging, especially when it comes to the choice of materials. Choosing the right materials is crucial to ensure the long-term durability and value of your home. There are many types of building materials available, including the natural ones. However, it is important to choose the right ones for your needs.