The materials we use in modern construction are worthy of a closer look. From the humble brick to the steel used to reinforce concrete foundations, all the pieces of a building matter. Each one has its own disadvantages and advantages, as well as proper handling techniques and installation methods that are combined to create beautiful buildings with a structure that will last. Taking a closer look at these simple but amazing materials may inspire you, and your next build.
Building Piece By Piece
Bricks and mortar have stood the test of time, creating structures that remain standing for centuries and have firmly earned their place as key players in home construction. They are made from clay; one of humanity’s most ancient construction materials. By using modern manufacturing processes like extrusion, moulding, and pressing modern bricks are one of a construction site’s hardest-wearing building materials.
When working with bricks and mortar, one must understand the correct ratios for mixing mortar for various applications, such as laying brick or block or repointing existing structures. Bricklaying is an incredibly valuable skill, when done correctly, and requires precision and patience to achieve a beautiful look.
Each brick is a piece of a large puzzle and has to be laid carefully and accurately to achieve an architect’s plans. Using bricks, often broken into smaller halves or quarters, intricate patterns can be created that can give a brick building a unique look that will last the test of time, just like the bricks will.
The Class Of Glass
Glass is a versatile material, adding both beauty and functionality to modern home construction. Glass is more than a building material. It brings light into a building and forms a frame for the outside world. Many buildings are built for the views they will create of the surrounding area but without glass, there are no views.
Working with glass requires precision and expertise. Safety is paramount when working with glass on a construction site. A glass vacuum lifter, like these 4 Cladding Services makes moving and installing glass panels much safer for workers. All these glass vacuum lifters from 4 Cladding Services use the reliable and renowned VIAVAC system for safety and ease of use.
The energy efficiency of glass is another important aspect to consider when choosing building materials. With options like double glazing and Low-E coatings helping to maintain indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs, your choice of glass can have a huge impact on the carbon footprint of a building site and of the building.
There’s Nothing Stronger Than Steel
When it comes to robustness and durability, few materials can rival steel. Predominantly used in framing, especially in areas prone to extreme weather conditions or seismic activity, steel provides a high strength-to-weight ratio that makes structures both resilient and lightweight.
Working with steel in residential construction, however, requires specialised knowledge and equipment. The process typically involves cutting and welding, demanding strict adherence to safety protocols. Besides its strength, steel is also appreciated for its longevity and resistance to pests, fire, and rot.
When it comes to sustainability, steel is often recyclable, making it an environmentally conscious choice. Thermal conductivity is a factor that needs to be addressed with suitable insulation when using steel in construction to make a building more energy efficient. Despite being a cold, hard, industrial material, steel can be used as an innovative architectural and design feature, and can offer sleek aesthetics without compromising on strength and stability.
The Versatility And Natural Beauty Of Wood
The timeless appeal of wood in home construction is undeniable. Despite advances in material science, wood is still a highly desirable material in residential and commercial construction, though more for its aesthetic appeal than as a structural component.
From framing to flooring, cabinetry to cladding, wood’s uses in a home are wide-ranging. However, working with wood necessitates a clear understanding of different species, their strengths, and their weaknesses. Hardwoods like oak or maple are typically preferred for flooring due to their durability, while softwoods like pine are often used in framing for their cost-effectiveness.
Knowledge of treating and sealing techniques is essential to protect wood from moisture, pests, and other damaging factors. The sustainability of wood, especially when sourced from responsibly managed forests, also adds to its appeal in modern times. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern treatments and finishes, wood offers endless possibilities to create buildings of enduring beauty and strength, inside and out.
Each of these building materials has its pros and cons, but when combined together in a modern architectural design it is possible to utilise every advantage they offer without suffering any of the disadvantages they can present. Working to the strengths of these materials, from the drawing board to the construction site, can help anyone from a national construction firm to a self-builders create a durable and beautiful building.