10 Types of Building Materials Used in Construction

Types of Materials Used in Construction

Building materials are commonly classified into two origins: natural and manmade. However, both must be made or treated before they are utilised in construction. The list of materials used in building construction is as follows:

1) Steel

Steel is a strong metal made from iron and carbon, with other materials mixed in to make it even stronger and resistant to damage than iron.  Stainless steel, for example, resists corrosion and oxidation because it contains extra chromium. Despite its weight, it's the top choice for constructing modern buildings and large industrial facilities due to its incredible strength.

Also Read: How to select steel for construction?

2) Cement

Cement is a crucial building material that hardens and sticks to other materials, helping them stick together. It's not typically used alone; instead, it's mixed with sand and gravel. Cement is often blended with fine sand to create mortar, which is used for bricks and stones in building construction. When mixed with sand and gravel, it becomes concrete, a versatile material used in various construction projects. Its ability to solidify and bond makes it a cornerstone of construction, ensuring that buildings and structures stand the test of time.

Also Read: Understanding the Various Types of Cement : Uses and Grades

3) Concrete

Concrete is a special construction material formed by mixing small and large pieces like gravel, crushed stone, recycled concrete, and synthetic materials. These pieces stick together with a liquid binder, usually cement, which gradually hardens as it dries. The most common type of cement used is called Portland cement, which is made by heating limestone and clay and then adding gypsum. When you blend Portland cement with water and these aggregates, it transforms into the sturdy substance we call concrete. This strong material forms the basis for many structures we see all around us.

4) Ready Mix Concrete

Ready mix concrete is a convenient building material produced in a plant away from the site and arrives at construction sites pre-mixed and ready for use. It's a blend of cement, aggregates like sand and gravel, and water, precisely measured and mixed at a concrete plant. This ready-to-use mixture ensures consistency and quality, saving time and effort on construction sites. Contractors can simply pour it into moulds or formwork, allowing for precise placement and curing. Occasionally, an extra ingredient called an admixture is added to make the concrete easier to handle or to control its setting time, allowing it to be transported efficiently to a construction site.

5) Binding Wire

Binding wire plays a crucial role in construction, helping hold different components together securely. It's particularly useful for tying reinforcing bars (rebars) at connection points, ensuring the stability of the structure. Binding wire is usually made from mild steel.

1. Constructional Binding Wire (Straightened Cut Wire):

This wire is ideal for construction purposes, providing strong and secure fastening.

2. Black Annealed Binding Wire

Perfect for every day tying needs, this wire is easy to handle and ensures a tight hold.

3. Galvanized Iron Binding Wire

Resistant to corrosion, this wire is durable and suitable for long-lasting applications.

4. Small Coil Rebar Wire

Specifically designed to secure rebars, ensuring structural stability.

5. Tie Loop Tie Wire

Versatile and useful for a wide range of tying applications in construction.

6. Binding Wire for Packing

Primarily used in packaging to secure materials and goods.

7. U Type Binding Wire

Shaped like the letter "U," this wire is tailored for specific binding requirements.

8. Galvanized Wire

Provides added protection against rust, ideal for outdoor use.

9. Stainless Steel Wire

Resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications.

10. Brass Wire

Known for its strength and corrosion resistance, commonly used in various industries.

11. Aluminum Wire

Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for specific applications where weight matters.

12. PVC Coated Binding Wire

Offers extra protection and is commonly used in outdoor and harsh environments due to its weather resistance.

6)  Wood

Wood is a versatile natural building material derived from trees and has been a trusted construction material for centuries.  There are various types of stones, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Wood is a construction material valued for its strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for construction, furniture, flooring, and countless other applications in the building industry. It's used in construction when it's cut or pressed into various forms like lumber, timber, boards, and planks.

Its renewable nature also makes it an environmentally friendly option in building and design. When sourced responsibly, such as through FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, wood ensures that forests are managed sustainably, promoting the conservation of natural habitats and biodiversity while supporting local communities

7) Stone

Stone is a natural building material formed over centuries through geological processes. It comes in various types, including granite, limestone, marble, and more, each with unique colours and textures. Stones are building materials used in construction for foundations, walls, flooring, and decorative elements, adding strength to buildings. Its robustness and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions make stone materials a popular choice in construction, ensuring both long-lasting performance and a rustic aesthetic.

8) Bricks

Bricks are one of the oldest and most fundamental building materials used in construction. They are typically made from clay that's fired in a kiln. Bricks are widely used for constructing walls, buildings, and various masonry constructions. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colours, and are materials used to build a house that allows for versatile design possibilities. Known for their durability and insulating properties, bricks are construction materials that have stood the test of time in the construction industry, providing both strength and a classic, traditional look to architectural projects.

9) Blocks

Blocks are modular construction units made from materials like concrete, clay, or aerated concrete. These units vary in shape and size, each tailored for specific construction needs. They play a fundamental role in creating walls, partitions, and structural elements in construction projects. Blocks are construction materials known for their strength, stability, and ease of installation, making them a practical choice for both residential and commercial buildings. 

10) Aggregates

Aggregates are granular materials used in construction, typically comprising crushed stone, gravel, sand, or recycled materials like concrete and asphalt. These components serve as the foundational building blocks for various construction projects, such as roads, buildings, and bridges. Aggregates provide structural support, aiding in the distribution of weight and enhancing the strength of concrete and asphalt mixtures. With a diverse range of sizes and types available, aggregates can be precisely tailored to meet specific construction requirements. 

When it comes to building a home, choosing the right building materials used in construction becomes important. UltraTech Building Solutions offers a comprehensive range of construction materials, including cement, concrete, and ready-mix solutions. With these versatile options, you can easily find the perfect fit for your construction needs.