Material selection is an essential step when completing any type of construction project. The materials should provide durability, structural integrity, and dependable performance while remaining within your budget and meeting design requirements. With so many options available, you might need some help making the right choice before you order materials. This guide details the different factors to weigh during construction material selection (like quality considerations and how to estimate construction material costs for your project) so you can choose the material that meets your building requirements.
Considerations When Choosing Construction Materials
There are several factors to consider with construction material selection, including:
Durability
Short- and long-term durability are essential considerations, as the local climate could greatly impact the integrity of materials. If you need materials for temporary construction, for instance, the long-term effects of elements like moisture and corrosion won’t likely factor into your decision. Conversely, for more permanent structures like warehouses, storefronts, and tall buildings, you will need to ensure that the materials you choose can hold up in the given environment.
Cost
Another factor to think about is the cost of materials. Structural requirements will also influence this aspect, as permanent structures will generally require durable, long-lasting materials than those used in temporary construction, which may only need to last a few weeks. You’ll want to compare the cost of different material types and sizes: for example, thicker and longer rebar will generally cost more than their smaller counterparts. Likewise, stainless steel can cost more per linear foot than plain, untreated steel.
Availability
Trying to source hard-to-find materials can be time-consuming and can also lead to higher procurement costs. If the ideal material option isn’t readily available in your area, you may want to consider viable substitutes to help you stay on budget and on time. The right materials manufacturer can help you choose suitable replacements based on your specifications.
Level of Maintenance
Maintenance is often necessary to keep structures in good shape after initial construction is complete. However, the amount of maintenance and repairs they require will depend largely on the quality of the materials you choose. While opting for cheaper materials can lower initial costs, those materials may require constant attention over the structure’s life, leading to higher maintenance and repair costs. Higher-quality materials, however, will generally require less maintenance over time.
Sustainability
A growing number of businesses consider sustainability when choosing materials for their application, and the construction industry is no exception. Contractors must think of ways to keep construction projects environmentally conscious and determine the potential impact of the materials they work with. They can also work to ensure that permanent structures can meet sustainability goals long after construction.
While you may not be able to incorporate sustainable materials into every aspect of construction, you can still take steps to make the project as environmentally friendly as possible without compromising integrity. This could mean choosing a material that does not rust, meaning it doesn’t release harmful chemicals into the environment. It could also mean using lighter-weight materials to reduce the environmental impact associated with transport and handling.
Construction Materials at Adelphia Metals
When looking for high-quality construction materials that meet your specific project needs, turn to Adelphia Metals, Llc. We carry a range of reliable construction materials to help you find what you need, including:
- Black rebar
- Fiberglass rebar
- Epoxy-coated rebar
- Coiled/spool rebar
- Fabricated rebar
- Steel remesh
- ChromX (MMFX)
- Galvabar
Whatever your construction needs, we’ll guide you to the right choice to ensure you receive materials that work for you based on project requirements and budgetary constraints.
Want to learn more about our offerings and find the right products for your next project? Contact us today to speak with one of our experts or request a quote for custom construction materials.