“Home is where the heart is’.’ Certain elements need to be utilized to make the building stand erect. From skyscrapers to huts, these materials play a crucial role in strengthening buildings. This blog covers twelve building materials that are required to start and finish the building construction.
12 Types of Building Materials Used in Construction
Never compromise on when building a home, as it encompasses various components involved in constructing the structure. Twelve elements are used in building construction. Let’s see them one by one.
1. Concrete
Explanation: Concrete is a composite material made from cement, sand, aggregate (gravel), and water. It hardens over time and gains strength, making it a fundamental building material.
Applications: Concrete is used in constructing foundations, slabs, beams, columns, and other structural elements. It is also used for sidewalks, driveways, and roads. Concrete can be molded into various shapes and forms, making it versatile for different construction needs.
2. Steel
Explanation: Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, known for its high tensile strength and durability. It is widely used in construction due to its flexibility and ability to withstand heavy loads.
Applications: Steel is commonly used in building frameworks, including beams, columns, and trusses. It is also used for reinforcement in concrete structures, roofing, and as a structural component in large buildings like skyscrapers, bridges, and industrial facilities.
3. Wood
Explanation: Wood is a natural material obtained from trees, valued for its aesthetic appeal and versatility. It is lightweight, easy to work with, and provides good insulation.
Applications: Wood is used in framing houses, making doors, windows, furniture, and flooring. It is also used for decorative purposes in interiors and for constructing wooden decks, fences, and pergolas.
4. Brick
Explanation: Bricks are small, rectangular blocks made from clay, sand, lime, or concrete materials. They are fired in a kiln to harden and strengthen them.
Applications: Bricks are used in building walls, partitions, and foundations. They are preferred for their durability, fire resistance, and thermal insulation properties. Bricks are also used in paving pathways and creating decorative elements in facades.
5. Stone
Explanation: Stone is a natural building material extracted from quarries. It is valued for its strength, durability, and natural beauty.
Applications: Stone is used in constructing foundations, walls, and facades. It is also used for flooring, countertops, and as a decorative element in landscaping. Common types of stone used in construction include granite, marble, limestone, and sandstone.
6. Glass
Explanation: Glass is a transparent or translucent material made from silica, soda, and lime. It is widely used in modern construction for its aesthetic appeal and ability to let natural light in.
Applications: Glass is used for windows, doors, partitions, and facades. It is also used in making skylights, glass walls, and decorative elements. Tempered and laminated glass are used for safety purposes in areas prone to impact or stress.
7. Aluminum
Explanation: Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal commonly used in construction. It is known for its strength, flexibility, and ease of fabrication.
Applications: Aluminum is used for window frames, doors, roofing, and cladding. It is also used in making structural components for buildings and bridges. Aluminum’s resistance to corrosion makes it ideal for coastal and industrial environments.
8. Plastic
Explanation: Plastic is a synthetic material made from polymers. It is lightweight, durable, and resistant to moisture and chemicals.
Applications: Plastic is used for piping, insulation, window frames, and roofing materials. It is also used in making flooring, wall panels, and various fixtures and fittings. Its versatility and ease of molding into different shapes make it popular in construction.
9. Cement
Explanation: Cement is a fine powder made from limestone, clay, and other minerals. When mixed with water, it forms a paste that hardens and binds other materials together.
Applications: Cement is a key ingredient in making concrete and mortar. It is used for constructing foundations, floors, walls, and other structural elements. Cement is also used in plastering and tiling works.
10. Clay Tiles
Explanation: Clay tiles are made from natural clay, molded into shapes, and fired in a kiln. They are known for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to weather.
Applications: Clay tiles are used for roofing, flooring, and wall cladding. They provide good insulation, are fire-resistant, and come in various colors and designs. Clay tiles are popular in both residential and commercial buildings for their rustic and traditional look.
11. Gypsum
Explanation: Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral used in the production of plaster, plasterboard, and other construction products. It is lightweight, fire-resistant, and easy to work with.
Applications: Gypsum is used for making drywall (gypsum board) for walls and ceilings. It is also used in plastering, creating decorative elements, and as a base for paints and textures. Gypsum board is preferred for its smooth finish and ease of installation.
12. Bamboo
Explanation: Bamboo is a fast-growing, sustainable material used in construction. It is strong, flexible, and environmentally friendly.
Applications: Bamboo is used for scaffolding, flooring, roofing, and wall panels. It is also used in making furniture and decorative elements. Bamboo’s natural aesthetic and sustainability make it popular in eco-friendly and traditional construction projects.
Conclusion
Wrapping things up, the elements of the construction from beginning to end play a crucial role, with each having a specific function. However, the world is evolving, and certain construction materials are being replaced with upgraded materials. These materials comprise the essential components needed for building construction from start to finish.
FAQs
The materials that play an important role in forming the foundation of a building are concrete and concrete blocks.
Some of the common materials used for building purposes are concrete, cement, sand, brick, blocks, and wood.