How to choose the best building materials in Connecticut?

How to choose the best building materials in Connecticut?

Written by Ingenuity & Solutions LLC

When launching a construction project, the client usually has clear ideas about the aesthetics of the building. Most often helped by architects or project managers, he is easily involved in this point of the process. However, to build also means choosing the different materials that will be used during the construction and this is a very important decision.

Between concrete, brick, or solid wood, to name a few, which one should you choose? This decision, far from being trivial, depends on the objectives sought which do not relate solely to the aesthetic aspect.

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According to solidity characteristics

At first glance, strength does not seem to be a criterion to take into account to choose construction materials. Because every owner wants his building to be resistant we all assume this should be done, but we need to reflect about to what extent we want it to be strong. In fact, depending on the region, buildings are not exposed to the same climatic and geographic constraints.

Storms and seismic risks

If the structure is located in an area subject to severe weather conditions that test its strength, we should use cellular concrete blocks, breeze blocks or bricks. In seismic areas, the choice of material is rather on lighter elements such as wood or cellular concrete.

Humidity, fire, and temperature variations

Some materials like solid wood are not very resistant in a humid environment. For concrete block and concrete block, anti-capillary insulation is essential for the facades, while for the foundations, it does not make a big difference. As for brick, it is a product that performs well both in humidity and for variations in heat.

According to construction techniques

On a more pragmatic level, not all materials have the same impact on the construction project.

The cost of the building material

While concrete blocks have always had a reputation as an economical building material, they must, however, be complemented with good insulation, such as fiberglass insulation.

Solid wood and bricks are slightly more expensive but can be used without an insulating coating. Concrete is the most expensive material though.

The ease and duration of construction

Speed and efficiency in the use of materials can make you take a wise decision. The implementation, the labor required, and the duration of the project, are all points that can be considered. Wooden houses, for example, are very easy to assemble, which means that construction processes are faster. Brick is also easy, but still requires skill in its laying technique. The concrete block is rather a product handled by specialists.

According to comfort criteria

In the world of construction, we tend to forget this aspect, but the choice of material has an impact on the comfort of the home or commercial building.

Ambient and texture

To be interested in the sensation of touching certainly makes little sense when it comes to concrete blocks or bricks. But it takes on its full meaning with solid wood which brings a much warmer feeling. The feel of the concrete is much cooler which is pleasant in high-temperature spaces.

Thermal insulation and energy performance

Today, new buildings are low-consumption buildings, that is to say, buildings that require less energy consumption than the standard. This involves the installation of thermal insulation, a good seal, ventilation, and economical heating. Under these conditions, the insulating power of the building material is of great interest. With the exception of the concrete block, which is certainly not used for insulation, the other products provide good insulation, that is to say, they prevent heat loss in winter and coolness in summer.

According to the environmental impact

Often linked to insulation, the environmental issue is an important criterion.

• Energy consumption

One can wonder about the quantity of energy necessary for the life cycle of building material, that is to say, to create it and pack it, transport it and store it, distribute it and sell it, use and maintain it and finally the recycling process. The most energy-consuming material in this area is brick and concrete blocks, while the big winner is solid wood. In addition, overall, the heaviest materials have the strongest impact on the cost of transportation and logistics.

• Ecological materials

In the context of the environmental impact, the use of sustainable products, made from natural or recyclable and non-polluting materials take on their full meaning here. We don't think much about it, but the buildings will one day be destroyed for the most part. Some materials can be recycled, such as brick and wood, but others are doomed to go to the recycling center, such as concrete blocks and concrete.

Ecological materials are also those which are not dangerous for the health, for instance, solid wood that can sometimes be harmful due to certain injurious specific treatments that this material is exposed to.

There are many other building materials that we haven't covered here that have their own advantages such as stone, aluminum, and PVC.

The cost of stone is high and its implementation complex, but its aesthetic potential is undeniable because it gives the building a very authentic appearance. With contemporary architecture very trendy today, building materials such as glass or metal are booming. All of these products have different characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages which must be appreciated. For this, the help of professional know-how decisive is to make the right choice.

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