Methods and Material in a House Construction Process

Wood

• Using wood is one of the most prominent methods to construct a home. Construction workers connect wood beams and sheets using nails and screws to create floors, walls and ceilings. While the home uses plywood and lumber, the wood is protected from moisture with a plastic film. Constructing a home using wood framing is inexpensive, and the materials are fairly easy to use in the construction process.

Steel

• While steel is often used in the construction of buildings, this material is also used in residential homes. While the process of building a home is similar whether it is wood or steel, the materials are different. Rather than wood beams, nails and screws, construction workers use steel beams, steel sheets, nuts and bolts. While steel is more durable than wood, it is less energy-efficient. The steel used in home construction can be made from recyclable material, but hot and cold weather easily transfers to the steel beams, lowering energy efficiency.

Masonry

• Masonry homes use brick and stone during construction and are extremely durable. Homes that use this material are able to hold up well in areas that experience high winds and storms. The stone or brick is connected using mortar, which is a workable paste that binds the material together. While the mortar dries, construction workers use ties or straps to keep the stones and bricks in place. Masonry homes provide excellent insulation and are able to block sound better than wood or steel-frame homes.

Concrete

• Concrete is a mix of cement, gravel, sand and water, and is an inexpensive and durable material. During home construction, the concrete is poured into columns where it hardens. Reinforced steel is also needed to give the concrete additional flexibility and strength. The advantages of using concrete include stronger walls, weather-resistant capabilities and energy efficiency. Concrete framing in home construction, however, is more expensive than wood or steel framing.