The construction industry took a big hit from the pandemic. Multiple firms had to lay off workers, and many more struggled to survive despite that. However, one of the biggest problems is the materials shortage.
The materials shortage is cost by different factors, the first of which is the decrease in production from overseas. The second factor is the increase in demand for construction projects as the nation starts to recover from the pandemic. The third and final factor is the limited availability of trucks to transport materials.
This has caused the cost of construction projects to skyrocket, creating a big problem for firms trying to survive and workers who have lost their jobs. Some experts believe that firms should prioritize quality over quantity. This means firms should start relying on quality construction materials for their projects instead of cheaper ones that are mass-produced on the other side of the world. Additionally, green materials should also be used by more firms. Here are some excellent materials your construction firm needs to start using:
Fiber Cement
One of the market’s newest and most reliable materials is fiber cement. It’s a composite material made of wood fibers, Portland cement, and sand. Fiber cement is highly versatile and can be used for various construction projects, including siding, trim, gutters, and even roofs.
It’s also incredibly durable, rot-resistant, and termite-resistant. In addition, fiber cement is low-maintenance and easy to install, making it an excellent choice for construction firms looking for a quality material that will save them time and money in the long run. One of the essential forms of fiber cement you should have is robust fiber cement board siding. This kind of siding is known to be resistant to moisture and rot. It’s also known to be termite-resistant and low-maintenance, making it an excellent material for construction firms.
Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is a mass timber product made by gluing together layers of lumber at right angles to one another. CLT is strong, stiff, and dimensionally stable, making it an ideal material for use in construction.
CLT can be used for various applications, including floors, walls, roofs, and even bridges. It’s also earthquake-resistant and can be recycled or reused at the end of its lifespan.
More and more firms are using CLT because it is a sustainable alternative to concrete and steel. It’s also much easier to work with than traditional lumber. As a result, CLT is an excellent choice for construction firms looking for a quality, eco-friendly material.
CLT is a reasonably new construction material, so don’t expect to find much nowadays. However, getting a couple of these should be enough for your construction project. It’s quality material that can last for a long time.
Recycled Steel
Another great material for construction firms to start using is recycled steel. Recycled steel is made from scrap metal that people would otherwise send to landfills. The scrap metal is melted down and reformed into new steel products.
Recycled steel is just as strong and durable as virgin steel but is much cheaper. It’s also more environmentally friendly because it doesn’t require mining new materials.
It’s cost-effective because it doesn’t require as much energy to produce. Additionally, people can recycle it at the end of its lifespan. As a result, recycled steel is an excellent choice for construction firms looking for quality, recycled material. Additionally, You can find it almost anywhere in the country, which means that your firm doesn’t have to look for it.
Bamboo
Bamboo is one of the planet’s strongest, most versatile, and most sustainable materials. It’s been used in Asia for everything from building homes to making furniture.
Bamboo can be used for various applications in construction, including floors, walls, roofs, and even bridges. However, it’s not the most resilient choice, but it is pretty standard nowadays. Therefore, bamboo is an excellent choice for construction firms looking for a quality, eco-friendly, sustainable material.
Mycelium
Mycelium is the root system of mushrooms. Mycelium is made by mixing the mushroom’s spores with a food source, such as straw. The spores will then germinate and grow mycelium, which will digest the food source. Your firm can use mycelium to make bricks, insulation, and other building materials.
It’s a fast-growing, sustainable material that your firm can use to create various products, including insulation, packaging, and even construction materials. Mycelium has excellent insulating properties and is fire-resistant. It’s also mold-resistant and can be used in wet or dry conditions. Mycelium is a perfect choice for construction firms looking for a quality, eco-friendly, sustainable material.
Construction firms are always looking for new, innovative ways to save time and money on their projects. These five materials offer a great solution to both of those problems. They are strong, durable, and environmentally friendly, making them an excellent choice for construction firms everywhere.
