A weak, badly constructed commercial building can have dire consequences- from expensive lawsuits to lost lives. This is why it’s critical to use high-quality site accessories, durable materials when constructing any type of commercial building.
There are three durable materials that are commonly used in commercial building construction: concrete, steel, and wood. If you’re overseeing a commercial construction project, here’s a guide to these materials.
Concrete
Concrete is made from a mixture of cement, water, sand, and gravel, so it’s widely used in commercial building construction because these ingredients make it durable.
It’s often hard for the foundation, walls, floors, and ceilings of a building.
Plus, concrete is not just sturdy. It’s an aesthetically versatile material. For example, exposed aggregate concrete can be used for a decorative finish on walls or floors. It’s also environmentally friendly as a material- it can be made from recycled materials, and it doesn’t give off toxic fumes.
Still, concrete can crack. Cracks can be serious or superficial depending on what causes the crack in the concrete.
For example, if the ground underneath a concrete foundation shifts, it can cause cracks in the foundation. These kinds of cracks can be serious and costly to repair. Superficial cracks, on the other hand, are much less serious. They might be caused by shrinkage as the concrete dries, or by minor settling of the foundation.
Steel
Steel is another common material used in commercial building construction. It’s an alloy of iron and carbon, and it’s much stronger than either of those two materials on its own.
It’s often used for the beams and columns that support a building’s weight, as well as for the reinforcement of concrete.
Besides being sturdy, steel can also be aesthetically pleasing. It can be left in its natural color, or it can be painted to match the exterior of the building.
However, steel is not indestructible and may rust. To prevent this, galvanize or coat steel building parts with a layer of zinc. This helps to protect the steel from corrosion.
Wood
Wood is a material that’s been used in construction for thousands of years because of its durability.
It can be used for the frame of a building, as well as for floors, walls, and ceilings. For aesthetic reasons, it can also be stained or painted to match the exterior of the building.
Plus, wood is environmentally friendly, as it’s a renewable resource.
There are a few different types of wood that are commonly used in construction, some stronger than others. For instance, oakwood is very popular choice because of its strength.
Admittedly, wood is not indestructible. It can rot if it’s exposed to moisture, and it can be damaged by insects. To prevent this, wood needs to be treated with chemicals that make it resistant to rot and insects like termites.
These three materials are used in commercial building construction to ensure sturdiness. Each material has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consult with a professional before beginning any construction project to ensure that you’re using the best materials for your needs.
