Any substance that is used to build a structure can be considered a construction building material. In the construction industry, there are many different types of building materials. Different materials are used depending on their structural capability. Local and national building standards are used in different regions. The architect chooses materials for their projects based on aesthetics, cost, and. Below are some of the most popular construction materials.
1. The concrete
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Concrete is a common building material. According to The Royal Society of Chemistry, it is the most commonly used material in the world. The composite material is made of fine and coarse aggregates mixed with cement and water. The mixture is left to set and cure over time. Concrete cures in seven days and reaches its maximum strength on average after 28 days. In construction, reinforced concrete is the most common. Steel is embedded into the concrete to increase its structural tensile strength. Concrete is available in many different forms. Examples include lightweight concrete and waterproof cement. Concrete is chosen based on the project. Concrete can be poured in any shape and then hardened to resemble stone.
Concrete is used in construction because of its versatility and low cost. We use concrete for:
- The Foundations
- Residential Building Construction
- Commercial Building Construction
- Bridge Construction
- Culverts & sewers
2. Metal
Steel was discovered as a reinforcing material, and skyscraper construction exploded. Steel is made of alloys containing iron and carbon. Steel is a material with high strength and functionality. Steel is lightweight, easy to work with, and more affordable to ship than any other building material. Steel is not easily deformed unless it’s under a lot of pressure. It retains its structural properties when bent. Steel is used to construct the structural frameworks of tall buildings because it has high structural stability.
Steel is distinguished by its high strength-to-weight ratio. We can install steel in any environment, and it is easier to install than concrete. Steel is susceptible to corrosion if it’s not installed correctly. Steel is prone to breaking down at high temperatures, which is one of its major drawbacks as a building material. The type of steel determines its level of fire resistance.
Steel is commonly used in construction for the purposes of:
- Steel bars are used to reinforce structural sections. This increases the tensile strength of structures.
- Steel is used to manufacture roofing products, such as purlins and internal walls. We also use it for ceilings and cladding.
- Interior fixtures: This is used to create interior fittings like railings and staircases.
- Steel is used to construct underground fuel, water, gas, and power lines.
3. Timber
Wood has been used for centuries. Wood is readily available, cost-effective, durable, and flexible. It can be molded or cured into desired shapes. Wood is a durable, sustainable material. It can be used for residential and commercial buildings and works well with many other materials. It works well with marble, steel, and aluminum. Wood is lighter than other building materials and easier to standardize. It is a good soundproofing material and has a high tensile resistance.
In the following areas, we use wood for construction:
- Construction of walls and floors
- Construction of interiors, such as doors and window frames
- The frames of buildings and bridges
- Thermal insulation
- Acoustic insulation
4. The stone
Stone is the most durable building material. Stone is used in some of the oldest buildings on earth. The texture of stone makes it versatile. We use it for walls and floors. The stone comes in a variety of colors and textures, from smooth to rough. Sandstone, marble, and granite are examples of stones that can be used for construction. The price of ordinary stone increases when it is finished in a unique way. Quality and color are factors that affect the cost and production time of marble countertops.
Stone is not without its drawbacks. The weight of the stone makes it hard to work with. It is also an ineffective insulator, so it’s not a good choice for cold climates.
Stone is used in construction for the following reasons:
- As a rough aggregate in construction
- Masonry works include walls, bridge piers, and dams.
- Ballast for railways
- External walls can be damp-proofed
- For polishing, stones like marble can be used.
5. Masonry and Brick
Bricks are rectangular blocks that are bound together with mortar. Bricks are traditionally made of heated and dried clay. Although they are very strong, they can also break. Concrete blocks reinforced with steel are the most important bricks available today. Masonry is durable and fire-resistant. We use it for load-bearing wall construction due to its high compressive strength. When reinforced with concrete, masonry can support multiple-story buildings. This is an affordable building option.
Masonry is used for a variety of construction components, including:
- Use for walls
- Use for masonry foundations
- For decorative finishes, other types of masonry are also used, including veneer masonry.
- In flood-prone areas, gabion walls can also be built using masonry.
Other Materials for Construction
The following materials are also popular:
1. A bamboo
You can use it to create flooring, furniture, and carpentry planks.
2. Foam for construction
Bamboo has a very high strength-to-weight ratio. In terms of compression strength and high tensile force, it rivals wood, concrete, and brick. Most commonly used in residential buildings and scaffolding.
The plastic foam is used to provide thermal insulation and reduce air infiltration in buildings. Concrete foam can be made from polystyrene or polyurethane foam that is inserted between wood, cement, and other forms.
3. A glass
The most common building facades are made of glass, which is made from liquid sand. Also, it is used as a building material for internal partitions and flooring. Glass is lighter than bricks and masonry, and it has a more pleasing aesthetic.
The thickness of glass is chosen according to the loads applied and is designed in compliance with the design standard.
4. Aluminium
Aluminum has become more popular, particularly with the shortage of wood in construction. Aluminum is an environmentally friendly material that has a minimal impact on the environment compared to other building materials.
Aluminum, which isn’t as strong, is combined with other alloys such as copper and magnesium to improve its strength. Aluminum grades vary in strength, so the choice of material is dependent on the application.
Selecting the right materials
The selection of materials is essential in any construction project or renovation. Even though most contractors have an idea of the contract price, it’s best to look at the suitability and cost of the materials for a particular project. Here are a few reasons why it is important to choose the right materials for a construction project.
1. The durability of the materials
The durability of the material will affect the warranty period, the defect liability period, and the duration of the project. To ensure structural stability, it is best to make sure that construction materials are durable. Durable materials will not need to be repaired or replaced frequently, so you can spread the costs of raw materials and energy over time.
Buildings are sometimes modified for reasons unrelated to their structural integrity. Durability planning identifies a realistic service life goal of a structure.
2. Materials Cost
Cost of materials is an important discussion point for engineers, clients, and architects. It is not always desirable to choose the cheapest product without taking into account its longevity and utility.
The right building materials will last longer and cost less in your project.
3. Effect of a Material on the Environment
Construction materials are chosen based on their cost, structural, and thermal properties. Building materials can have an impact on the environment, including pollution and energy costs in manufacturing.
Construction materials of poor quality also contribute to waste problems at all stages. Construction materials can affect the project’s lifecycle, including recycling options.
It is recommended that you choose an environmentally friendly material without sacrificing quality.
4. Better adherence to project milestones
The selection of the materials you use can have a significant impact on your system and the sequence of construction. High-quality material will reduce the need for repairs and allow you to complete a project in the time frame specified.
An overview
Different materials used in construction strengthen and enhance the final product. Construction materials and the construction industry are both growing rapidly. Modern construction materials are used to ensure a successful project. Building planners must analyze the materials they choose to determine which one is best for the planning phase. The quality of the materials is also influenced by the suppliers. You should work closely with your supplier to ensure timely delivery.