Whether you’re building a deck, a house extension, or an entirely new home, you don’t want inferior building materials. After all, when you’re putting in all this effort, you want whatever you build to stand the test of time.
Fortunately, superior building materials designed for longevity do exist. Your next building project may be enjoyed for generations to come when you use some of the following building materials:
Marine Lumber
While traditional lumber is more than suitable for many building projects, marine lumber is undoubtedly a better option for longevity in challenging environments. Marine-grade lumber is an ideal material for water applications in the water or near it.
As the lumber goes through a unique treatment process, it’s ideal for both freshwater and saltwater environments. With proper maintenance, marine-grade lumber can last up to 30 years or longer. You may even enjoy an extended lifespan with wood preservatives and sealants like chromated copper arsenate and alkaline copper quaternary.
Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)
If the time has come to build your new dream home, don’t look past insulated concrete forms. You may decide to explore ICFs if you’re looking for exterior building materials that will stand the test of time and look visually exciting on your custom home. ICFs have two insulating foam layers that stack together with steel reinforcements in the gaps. Concrete is then poured into the gaps to set. This incredibly durable building material is listed in the building code for residential construction.
Composite Decking
While wood decking materials are undeniably beautiful, they’re not without their flaws. They can splinter, scratch, decay, and attract bugs and pests. Composite decking made of synthetic materials is an excellent alternative.
They look like wood but are designed to be more durable than organic wood fibers. They also don’t require any sanding, sealing, or staining, and are ideal for high-traffic areas. Best of all, most composite decking materials are water, decay, and pest-resistant while also being made with recycled materials. When exploring flooring options for your deck, consider whether composite decking materials are right for you.
Structural Insulated Panels
When strength and energy efficiency are two of your main priorities while building or renovating your house, consider learning more about structural insulated panels. These foam insulation panels sit between strand board or plywood pieces and are easy to install in floors, walls, and basements. If you typically struggle to maintain a consistent temperature in your home, their thermal insulation properties and airtight construction make them an option worth exploring.
Brick
You can’t look past brick for new home builds and renovations. From feature walls in kitchens and behind fireplaces to flooring and fences, brick is a building material that’s as versatile as they come. It’s also designed to stand the test of time. Brick can protect against harsh weather, can help retain heat, and is among the oldest and strongest building materials in history.
If the time has come to undertake a new home build or renovation, don’t underestimate the value of exploring the best building materials. The more high-quality the building materials are, the more peace of mind you can enjoy knowing they’ll likely remain in excellent condition for a long time.