construction materials library

 

Construction materials have evolved in great ways over the years. Instead of using asbestos when building, people now use recycled materials. Construction materials are important to our safety because they're what hold the industrial world together.

Featured Article:  Concrete or granite -- which is the better countertop?

To most house hunters, granite means luxury and elegance. Concrete, on the other hand, is edgy, trendy and infinitely adaptable. So in terms of looks, durability and safety, which countertop is better? See more »

5 Long-lasting Building Materials

5 Long-lasting Building Materials

Construction has come a long way from the mud huts or canvas tents early man. But what materials should be used to keep that roof securely over our heads?

See more »
5 Tools That Are a Must for a Builder's Toolbox

5 Tools That Are a Must for a Builder's Toolbox

There are many tools that builders find useful, but only a few of them are absolutely critical. What tools do you need most to get the job done?

See more »
Concrete or granite -- which is the better countertop?

Concrete or granite -- which is the better countertop?

To most house hunters, granite means luxury and elegance. Concrete, on the other hand, is edgy, trendy and infinitely adaptable. So in terms of looks, durability and safety, which countertop is better?

See more »
Do gutter guards work?

Do gutter guards work?

You'd love to quit climbing up on your rickety ladder to clean your gutters. Are gutter guards the answer?

See more »
How Acoustic Ventilation Works

How Acoustic Ventilation Works

Most of us are aware of the dangers of outside air pollution, but not many know that indoor air pollution levels can be as much as five times greater than outside. Ventilation can help combat the poor air quality, but how can we keep it quiet?

See more »
How Concrete Roofs Work

How Concrete Roofs Work

The Big, Bad Wolf can huff and puff all he wants, but he'll never blow one of these roofs off. Could a concrete roof protect you from violent storms (and wolves), or will it make your walls buckle?

See more »
How do I dispose of my construction waste without bruising my environmental conscious?

How do I dispose of my construction waste without bruising my environmental conscious?

You've probably heard the green mantra: reduce, reuse, recycle. Those three actions aren't limited to your kitchen trash; they can be applied to renovations, too.

See more »
How Formica Works

How Formica Works

If you've ever wondered about the Formica countertops in your kitchen or bath -- or the laminate that tops tables and furniture -- this article is for you.

See more »
How Granite Countertops Work

How Granite Countertops Work

Tough, wear-resistant granite has long been one of the most popular choices for countertops. You should probably think twice before installing it yourself, though.

See more »
How is ceramic tile made?

How is ceramic tile made?

Ceramic tile may spruce up your kitchen, but this material is more than just a pretty face. How does clay get transformed into something so strong and useful?

See more »
How is concrete made?

How is concrete made?

Whether you've been eyeing a new kitchen countertop or a pair of boots for your arch mobster rival, concrete has many applications. What's the recipe for this durable, ubiquitous substance?

See more »
How Quikrete Works

How Quikrete Works

Whether you're repairing concrete structures or coating surfaces, Quikrete products can be a simple and inexpensive solution.

See more »
How Roofing Materials Work

How Roofing Materials Work

When you think of a metal roof, you think of a dilapidated lean-to with a corrugated tin roof. Today roofs are usually made of an asphalt/fiberglass combination or wood shingles.

See more »
How Rubber Roofs Work

How Rubber Roofs Work

One of the most dreaded projects for homeowners is roof repair. If you're looking for an alternative to the exhausting process of roof repair and maintenance with asphalt shingles, you may want to consider rubber roofing.

See more »
How Stamped Concrete Works

How Stamped Concrete Works

Stamped concrete is dyed, altered and shaped to resemble other construction materials -- like brick, flagstone, tile and wood.

See more »
How Structural Insulated Panels Work

How Structural Insulated Panels Work

If you've ever seen a house being built, you probably saw a wooden latticework of spindly 2x4s outlining a shape somewhat reminiscent of a whale's ribcage. But there's another way to build a house, and it could save you a lot of money.

See more »
Metal vs. Steel: Is There a Difference?

Metal vs. Steel: Is There a Difference?

The terms metal and steel are constantly used in the same capacity but are they really the same?

See more »
What are fireplace inserts?

What are fireplace inserts?

Blazing fireplaces make things cozy and warm – but they're not very energy-efficient. Fireplace inserts will save you money and time.

See more »
What are the most used exterior house colors?

What are the most used exterior house colors?

The house is looking a bit drab these days. So, you're thinking about sprucing it up. A new coat of paint, or hey, a whole new color might do the trick. But how can you make the best decision possible when choosing that new color?

See more »
When is using untreated lumber better?

When is using untreated lumber better?

If you're building something out of wood, you're going to have to choose between treated and untreated lumber. Which one is better?

See more »