Modern buildings are made from a mixture of materials. Three of the most popular options are steel, timber and brick. Just which is the best construction material? It depends on the project you have in mind. This post delves into the strengths and weaknesses of these 3 different building materials.
By Team Savant
Steel
Image: Minh
Steel has the best strength-to-weight ratio of the three materials, which is why it can be used to build skyscrapers and suspension bridges. When it comes to smaller projects, steel still has the advantage of being pest-proof and very robust - making it popular for sheds and barns. You can also sculpt steel into all kinds of shapes and explore more unusual designs than with other materials (although other metals like aluminium may actually be better for this)
Unfortunately, steel can be high maintenance — it is prone to corrosion unless it is regularly topped up with protective coatings. Steel roofs are also known to be noisy in the rain and hail, although a soundproof underlayment can be used to muffle this sound. On top of this, it’s the least environmentally-friendly material, however it is recyclable.
Timber
Image: Barnabas Davoti
Timber is a natural material and this gives it an inherently calming and warm aesthetic. It is also the most sustainable and environmentally-friendly material of the three — while steel and brick can be recycled, timber is a resource that can be forever tapped into by continuously replanting trees, which give oxygen back to the atmosphere. A lot of construction projects also choose timber for its insulation properties - timber structures are able to retain a lot of warmth in winter, while also offering ventilation in summer. A timber structure generally retains heat better than a brick or steel structure.
The biggest downside of timber is that it is more prone to moisture damage than steel or brick. Some types of timber can withstand moisture better, but most types of timber need to be regularly treated to stop them from rotting. Timber structures can also be damaged from pests such as termites and rodents, however certain treatments can also limit this. Another pitfall is the fact that timber is much more flammable than steel or brick.
Brick
Image: Emily Wang
Brick structures are very durable. They can withstand fires, strong winds and cold winter weather well. Unlike steel and timber, brick structures require almost no maintenance. This makes brick an increasingly popular option for houses and apartment blocks. It’s worth noting that brick is also pest-proof and has fairly good insulation properties that make it good for buildings in cold climates.
Of course, constructing a building out of bricks is labour intensive and more costly than working with other materials. If you’re looking to quickly erect a structure or are on a tight budget, brick is unlikely to be a good choice. It is also not as environmentally friendly as timber.
Conclusion
Each material clearly has its pros and cons. Understanding these pros and cons can help you determine which projects are suitable for each material. Steel is generally best suited if you’re looking for fast construction, security and a modern look. Timber is better suited if you’re looking for affordability, energy-efficiency and a natural look. Brick is meanwhile ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance, long-lasting, robust structure.