The building materials you choose will determine how well your structure will endure. It is important to choose ones that are resistant to corrosion, moisture, and other environmental and external factors.
In addition, the material should be readily available to avoid delays in construction. Otherwise, it will increase the cost and length of time to complete the project.
Cost
The cost of building materials is an important consideration for architects and builders. Not only do the building materials affect the overall construction costs, but they also influence future maintenance and repair costs. Low-quality building materials degrade faster, requiring more frequent repairs and replacements. This can be expensive in the long run, especially for large commercial buildings. Therefore, it is advisable to use quality building materials, which are more resistant to corrosion and moisture.
Another factor that determines the cost of building materials is their availability. It is important to find materials that are easily accessible and do not require a lot of time to be transported. This will help reduce construction costs and save on labor hours. In addition, it is advisable to choose materials that can be replaced easily if they are damaged or if they become worn down over time.
The context of a project or a building is another crucial factor when choosing the right building materials. This factor can include a physical context, such as the location of the building or its proximity to other buildings. It can also refer to the culture or historical significance of the site, such as local building traditions and the meanings associated with certain types of materials. It is also important to consider the climate where the building will be located. Factors such as the average temperature, rain or snowfall, and the amount of daylight needed for ventilation are crucial factors to consider.
Durability
Durability is one of the key concerns that people have when choosing building materials. They want to be sure that the products they choose will meet their design requirements for today, tomorrow, and beyond. They also want the building to be able to stand up to wear and tear without expensive upkeep. The building materials they choose must also help create a comfortable indoor climate that promotes healthy living.
It’s important to consider durability when choosing building materials, especially for those who plan on owning their building for a long time. Low-quality products may degrade quickly and require extensive maintenance, which can cost a lot of money in the long run. High-quality products, on the other hand, tend to last longer and can be used for decades or even a lifetime.
The climatic conditions in the area where the building will be built is another consideration when choosing building materials. Some materials are more resistant to corrosion and moisture, while others degenerate quite quickly, particularly in humid environments. The best choice is to use materials that will be able to adapt to the climatic conditions and serve their purpose effectively without becoming worn down by weather elements.
The availability of the building materials in the local market is another factor that should be considered. If a material is not available locally, it can add a great deal to the overall construction cost and may even delay the project.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics are one of the primary elements contemplated in architecture. They cover the combined effects of a building’s shape, size, texture, color, balance, unity, movement, emphasis, contrast, proportion, space, alignment, pattern and decoration. The aesthetics of a building should appeal to both its occupants and the wider community. The aesthetics of a building should also reflect its local culture and context.
Aesthetic factors can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of a building’s occupants. Many people prefer to live in buildings that are both beautiful and functional. For example, bricks and stones are a popular choice for builders because they add aesthetic appeal to a building while providing a durable, water-resistant barrier. Additionally, they can be easily molded into different shapes and can fit into a variety of design aesthetics.
There is also growing interest in the benefits of naturalness in the built environment. Research has shown that perceived nature can reduce stress and anxiety, increase a person’s sense of well-being, and generate positive experiences in the building. However, few studies have examined the role of perceptions of naturalness in material selection decisions for the built environment.
Aesthetics are important in construction, but should not be used at the expense of functionality. A good architect knows how to balance the two components and ensure that the final structure is both functional and attractive.
Environmental Impact
Choosing building materials that have a low environmental impact is becoming increasingly important. The environmental cost of a material goes beyond its price tag — it includes all of the impacts that occur during its extraction, manufacturing, construction, operation and disposal. Having access to concise information about the environmental impact of all types of building materials is vital for designers and builders who are trying to make sustainable choices.
Using recycled and locally sourced materials reduces the amount of energy that is needed to extract and process them. It also reduces the carbon footprint of shipping the materials. Using materials that are adaptable and flexible can minimize waste from changes to a design or use.
The most common impact categories include fossil depletion, climate change (both human and ecosystem), ozone depletion, photochemical oxidant formation, particulate matter formation, metal depletion, terrestrial acidification, freshwater eutrophication and agricultural land transformation. More specialized impact categories include global warming, abiotic depletion, human toxicity and toxicity to wildlife.
While steel is a popular choice in construction, it has a high level of environmental impact. Besides the CO2 emissions produced during its production, it requires a significant amount of energy to make and ship. To reduce the impact of steel, using recycled steel is a good alternative. Other alternatives to steel include concrete and timber.