
Some of the oldest structures in the world wouldn’t have made it if they were made out of different construction materials. You can argue that there was no other resource available to them at the time, but at the end of the day, they created humongous structures that have lasted hundreds and thousands of years.
Modern construction projects have a variety of construction materials to choose from. Each of which is perfect for specific applications. Some project planners use what they think are the best materials that they can find thinking that these tried and tested products are all they need.
However, there is a certain combination of construction materials that should be used for particular projects. Not only will this make the structure as study as possible, but it will also provide several other important considerations in every construction project. We will discuss them all below!
Increased Durability
Yes, some are fundamentally better than others on paper. However, depending on the structure that’s going to be made, there are far and above better options above the rest for example, As beautiful as wood is for cabins, it’s absolutely terrible as a material for urban projects such as skyscrapers!
In a similar concept, the best material for a nature-themed cabin is of course wood instead of the more popular concrete mix.
When it comes to durability, you can’t just rely on concrete and steel bars alone. They’re incredibly strong materials on their own but there are some projects that would just use them as the foundation.
Bear in mind that cement and steel bars are not a one-size-fits-all resource. There are countless kinds of steel and concrete solely because you can enhance its durability and flexibility by changing its chemical makeup!
Better Safety
Using the right construction materials not only make the building sturdier, but it will also ensure that those who work on and in it are safe.
A building that is made of the most appropriate materials will have the ability to endure some natural disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
You can’t make skyscrapers with steel beams that are rigid and stiff. They need to be flexible along with the concrete used for it so that when an earthquake strikes, its foundations won’t just crumble because of the earth moving.
The same idea needs to be considered for structures like bridges, especially those that connect over the ocean where you’re fighting against the wind and the ocean’s current.
An appropriately built building with the most applicable materials will last a lifetime.
Sustainability
Depending on where you construct the building, you might have to consider the overall sustainability of the project. Building it in an urban area is different from building it in a rural area. The considerations change depending on the environment.
This is more significant with constructions that are done in industrial areas where you might find yourself near corrosive environments. Using the right construction materials will not only prevent corrosion, but it will also make it last for as long as possible!
Cost Efficiency
Arguably the most important reason why you need to use the correct materials for your construction projects is for cost-efficiency.
Sure, you can buy and use the most expensive materials that are said to be the best resources in the world, but you will still have to adjust your budget accordingly.
By choosing what is best for your project, you essentially min-max. Min-max means you put in the minimum effort needed to get the maximum result. Being more specific with your choice of materials has the potential of opening up your budget for more things.
You might find yourself a better material when you scout and research on what your project needs. Does it need flexibility? Durability? Or corrosion resistance?
Some materials are better suited to combat one of the three problems above, and unless you need something that can answer them, then you won’t need to buy the most expensive material that claims to be great against them.
More Precise Project Planning
A construction project won’t happen without proper planning first. That planning stage includes the choosing of the most effective materials that they can find. In this stage, everything is going to be considered. Be it the scale of the project, how strong or malleable it should be, the budget for the resources, and the timeline of its construction.
Everything is laid out here. And of course, this is when the decision is going to be made on what materials will be used.
Having the right materials will basically dictate the path of the whole project.
Key Takeaway
Old buildings from different times still stand today because of the techniques of how it’s made and the many materials that they hand-picked to act as its foundation. Consider the points mentioned above to understand why the proper construction materials are as relevant as they are!