Building Materials

Fun Facts About Building Materials

• Compared to other building materials, concrete is unique. It can continue hardening for decades as it reacts with water in a process called hydration.
• Structural steel is chosen for skyscrapers because it can stretch before breaking. This flexibility helps skyscrapers sway safely in wind and earthquakes instead of snapping.
• While steel is absolutely stronger by volume, pound for pound natural wood is stronger than steel. Wood's lower density makes it a highly efficient structural material.
• Glass is primarily produced by melting high-purity sand at extremely high temperatures of around 3,000°F. The molten mixture is cooled rapidly to create an amorphous solid.
• Copper turns green through a natural chemical process called oxidation, forming a layer known as patina. This layer protects the metal underneath, as seen on the Statue of Liberty.
• Surprisingly, thatched roofs can last decades. Made from materials like water reed or wheat straw, when properly maintained dried vegetation can last 30–50 years, providing excellent insulation.
• Aluminum is approximately one-third the density of steel, providing a high strength-to-weight ratio ideal for window frames and curtain walls in tall buildings.
• Unlike concrete which shrinks as it cures, fired clay bricks can expand slightly over the years as they absorb moisture. This expansion is taken into account during the construction process, especially in exterior applications.