Materials used in construction range from naturally occurring products to synthetic products. The choice of building materials is primarily based on availability, cost-effectiveness for building projects. The manufacture of building materials is a huge global industry and the use of building materials is typically segmented into specialty trades such as plumbing, HVAC system, carpentry, insulation work and roofing. Below is a list of materials used to build a house that combines all the necessary aspects together in one list.
List of Materials Used to Build a House
Wood
Wood is both a historical and common choice as a building material. Although there has been a recent shift towards other engineered products, wood has various natural advantages. It’s very lightweight and easy to cut compared to steel, for example. When it comes to curb appeal, it’s definitely much easier to add decorative elements to wooden constructions.
Disadvantages of wood as a building material include susceptibility to fire, water damage, termites and decay. Wood is also less environmentally sustainable than green building materials such as recycled steel and composite lumber.
Plastic
Plastics are very popular in the construction industry mainly because their different properties make them fit for most uses. One of the main benefits of plastics is that they’re less expensive than most other materials. They’re also lightweight and have a high resistance to corrosion, making them the most common to make water pipes out of. Some disadvantages of plastic include high flammability and environmental damage as they are not biodegradable.
Glass
Glass has become increasingly popular as an urban building material for both commercial and residential properties. The main advantages of glass include:
- Beautification
- Resistance to UV rays
- Energy efficiency
- Privacy-comes in a variety of reflective surfaces for added privacy
However, major cons of glass include the high cost of purchase and installation, high maintenance requirements and security concerns.
Metal
Metal is commonly used as a structural framework for skyscrapers and larger buildings, or as an external surface covering. Aluminum and steel alloys constitute the larger share of metals used in construction. Benefits of metal include their strength and durability, resistance to fire and ability to withstand adverse climatic conditions.
However, the disadvantages include high costs of production and maintenance as well as corrosion.
Cement
Cement is the most common binder in construction. It’s highly resilient and improves the overall structural integrity of a building. It’s easily manufactured and a longer warming/cooling cycle makes it better at accumulating heat. However, cement can be too hard and as a result, brittle, not to mention, easy to suck up dirt and moisture.
Bricks and Blocks
These materials are immune to rotting and are fireproof, making them ideal for sturdy foundations. Bricks are often made of renewable materials, making them an environmentally safe option. The disadvantages include heaviness, often requiring deep foundations. They can be damaged by plant growth and are also vulnerable to mold in damp conditions.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re purchasing a house for the first time or building a home from scratch, it helps to know the benefits and drawbacks of the different list of materials used to build a house – after all, you want them to stand the test of time. Regardless of what materials you plan on using or what type of design you want your home to be, luxury custom home builders at Carmel Home Design Group offer design, building, and remodeling services.
