Building projects come in all different sizes. From small home additions to large industrial complexes, every one of them is built with similar materials. We’re going to go over seven of the most common building materials that are used in a variety of construction projects below.
Drywall
Most building projects use drywall. Also commonly referred to as sheetrock, drywall is a panel that is constructed of gypsum sandwiched by facer and backer papers. It’s usually found in four by eight-foot sections at the local hardware store or building supplier. Drywall is used to close in interior walls and ceilings inside of a home or office.
Shingles
While there are many roofing materials on the market, shingles still tend to be the most commonly used for residential buildings. Shingles are made of asphalt and are adhered to the top of the roof. This creates a water diversion system that ensures the water is directed into the home’s gutter system for removal. Shingles are available in many different styles and colors, depending on the preference of the homeowner. Some premier brands sell shingles that last up to 50 years.
Concrete
Concrete is one of the most commonly used building materials on the market. It’s constructed of basic compounds, including water, cement, and an aggregate like sand or gravel. Concrete can be utilized to create walls, floors, foundations, patios, and driveways. Apart from building, concrete is the main building supply for dams, roads, and bridges alike. When this material hardens, it creates a solid material.
Joist Ties
Joist straps are commonly used to anchor ceilings, floors, and decking. They’re adhered to typically two pieces of lumber with nails or screws, depending on the preference of the contractor. These straps are utilized to provide an extra layer of adhesion between the two pieces of lumber. Joist ties are commonly used alongside joist hangers to help reinforce the joint. These are used in regions where tornados and windstorms are more likely to test the strength of the construction.
Lumber
Lumber, also known as timber, is wood that is specifically processed to be used in construction. This wood is a common component that is used to create structural supports for buildings. You’ll find it for sale by different names depending on its unique purpose. Beams are meant to support roofs and upper levels. Planks are mean to be used for flooring and walls. Since there are different species of wood available, there are different types of lumber offerings as well. Some woods are considered stronger than others and are more preferable for big construction projects.
Insulation
Another common building supply that is used in both residential and commercial construction is insulation. This material can be bought in various forms, including rolls, foam spray, and foam board. Insulation is used to create a thermal barrier for the home or building. It’s installed inside the wide cavities and allows heat or air conditioning to be mainly trapped in the interior of a home. The type of insulation that is used on a project highly depends on the size of the workspace, building code requirements, and the thermal preference of the home or building owner.
Screws
Screws are a basic building supply that is used for numerous projects. This mechanical fastener has a threaded shaft that allows it to penetrate into a material to hold it securely to another surface. Due to the versatility of screws, there are many different types available at the building store. Choosing the right one depends on what specific project you’re using it for and the material that you’re trying to penetrate. Some of the most common types of screws include wood screws, drywall screws, sheet metal screws, machine screws, and socket screws. Each type of screw comes in many different sizes as well to ensure that the user can create a solid bond between the various materials used.
The construction world has many different building supplies that it relies on day in and day out to get the job done. From basic supplies like screws to hang up some drywall to joist hangers to give added protection to a structure, there’s always a particular supply to get the job done.
