Picking the right materials for your construction projects is the most vital aspect of the pre-construction stage as they lay the foundation and determine the structural integrity of your buildings. With the right materials, your structures will be able to withstand the effects of extreme weather climates and natural disasters and last through the test of time.
However, selecting the wrong materials can result in problematic issues in the long term, as short lifespan, safety hazards, and structural instability can emerge years down the road, causing you unnecessary losses and expenses needed to maintain the condition of your building. Therefore, it is important to stay educated, do your research, and source for different building materials from a trusted supplier.
Concrete
Concrete is a highly versatile building material made with a mixture of cement and an assortment of sand, water, or stone. It is poured into forms, left to dry and harden, and can form various structural components such as walls, beams, ceilings, and sidewalks. As it is highly durable and sturdy, it is ideal for forming building foundations. It can support heavy weights and withstand wet conditions, extreme weather events, and natural disasters. In addition, they can be reinforced and augmented with steel for increased structural integrity.
As concrete will require a unique skillset to construct, you will want to work with a highly experienced contractor with a proven track record to ensure your structure is installed well. It is also significantly more costly than wood and metal, but its energy efficiency and durability can prove to be a cost-effective, long-term investment.
Metal
Steel is often the go-to material for uses in construction and building, as it is durable, resistant to corrosion and rusting compared to its other metal counterparts. It is ideal for framing larger commercial or industrial facilities and high-leveled buildings. It is relatively lightweight, water- and fire-proof, unsusceptible to pests and insects such as termites, and promises a longer lifespan than wood. Moreover, it allows the designers more versatility and creativity in going for broader, open, and less traditional designs due to its malleability without compromising on the structural integrity of the building. Its replicability as a manufactured material makes craftsmanship and achieving precise dimensions easier to achieve.
When picking the type of metal, avoid those prone to rust and corrosion to extend the lifespan of your construction. Consider which area of the building you intend to be especially humid – as metals like aluminum can rust and corrode in high humidity conditions. Unless you are going for a contemporary and sleek aesthetic, metal frames aren’t the most welcoming and will not provide that rustic, homely appeal that wood can provide.
Wood
Wood framing is recognized for its versatility and ability to fit into many construction projects, from commercial to industrial to residential. The material is affordable, economical, durable, and incredibly lightweight when maintained, making it incredibly easy to transport. It is an ideal material that can be easily manipulated and customized to fit the clients’ needs – be it wood framing, panel and truss installations, outdoor applications, or as aesthetic components for the interior design. Compared to other types of manufactured materials, it is a natural, sustainable, and renewable resource that produces a lesser carbon footprint.
However, as wood is a porous material, it is combustible, subject to splitting, rotting, warping, decay, fire damage, and pest infestations. Fortunately, this can be countered by picking the suitable type of wood that suits your purpose. For instance, if you’re using wood for outdoor applications, consider using cypress, which has a natural resistance to moisture and wet weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor decks, docks, and furnishings.
Why You Should Work with US Framing
US Framing specializes in various framing approaches and has an established portfolio of projects that range from large multi-family structures to commercial framing buildings like shopping centers, offices, and apartment buildings. With us overseeing all the stages of your projects, you can rest assured that your budgeting, pre-planning, and construction are managed by the most qualified and experienced members of our project management team to streamline your production schedules.
If you are interested in finding out more about the services we offer, please do not hesitate to contact us or book an appointment with us today!
