Are you getting ready to take on a custom home building project? If you’ve started looking up how to choose the right building materials, you might be starting to feel overwhelmed.
After all, choosing the right building materials is crucial for the success and longevity of your project (no pressure!). At Johnson Lumber, we’re here to help make that process a bit easier for you.
Today we’re drawing on our 100+ years of experience serving Maryland homeowners to give you some insight into how to select the right building materials for your specific needs.
7 Elements to Consider for Home Building Materials
When it comes to selecting building materials, there are seven key factors to take into account:
- Aesthetics
The appearance of your home is essential, and the right building materials can enhance its visual appeal. Consider the architectural style and desired aesthetic outcome.
Whether you prefer the timeless beauty of wood siding or the versatility of brick and masonry, the choice of materials should align with your vision.
- Energy Efficiency
In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy efficiency is always at the top of the list of priorities. Choose materials that offer excellent insulation properties to reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs. Look for energy-efficient windows, insulation materials, and roofing options to create a sustainable and eco-friendly home.
- Upfront Cost
Budget is a significant consideration for any home project. While it’s important to stick to your budget, keep in mind that investing in high-quality building materials upfront can save you money in the long run. Consider the long-term value and durability of the materials before making a decision.
- Material Life Expectancy
The longevity of building materials affects the maintenance and replacement costs down the line. Opt for materials with a longer life expectancy to ensure the longevity and durability of your home. High-quality lumber, engineered products, and durable siding options are worth considering.
- Climate
The climate in your region plays a crucial role in selecting suitable building materials. Materials should be able to withstand the local weather conditions, whether it’s extreme heat, cold, humidity, or heavy rainfall. Choose materials that are resilient and appropriate for your specific climate. In Maryland, we know all too well that means materials that can take a freezing winter and a humid summer.
- Maintenance
Consider the level of maintenance required for the materials you choose. Some materials may require regular upkeep, such as painting or sealing, while others may be virtually maintenance-free. Assess your willingness and ability to maintain the materials over time.
- Performance
Evaluate the performance characteristics of different materials, such as strength, fire resistance, sound insulation, and moisture resistance. Select materials that meet the specific performance requirements of your project, ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment.
Commonly Used Building Materials: Pros and Cons
Now that you’ve got some ideas for how to judge the best building materials for your next project, it’s time to talk about some of the options at your disposal.
Drywall
Drywall is a popular choice for interior walls and ceilings. It offers a smooth finish, easy installation, and fire resistance. That said, it may be prone to damage from moisture or impact.
Concrete
Concrete is known for its strength and durability. It’s a versatile material used in foundations, walls, and floors. It provides excellent fire resistance and is low-maintenance. However, it can be more expensive and time-consuming to work with compared to other materials.
Wood Siding
Wood siding provides a natural and timeless aesthetic. It offers insulation properties and can be painted or stained in various colors. If you’re not up for regular maintenance and thinking about protecting it against moisture and pests, you may want to consider another material.
Brick/Masonry
Brick and masonry provide a classic and durable option for exterior walls. They offer excellent fire resistance, insulation, and low maintenance. Price can become more of a factor with these materials, though, as they are more expensive and they’ll require professional installation.
These are just a few examples, and there are numerous other materials available for different applications. Consult with our experts at Johnson Lumber to explore a wide range of building materials suitable for your project.
Take Your Pick With Johnson Lumber Building Materials
At Johnson Lumber, we offer a comprehensive selection of high-quality building materials to fulfill your custom home building needs. Our inventory includes:
- Lumber & Boards: Dimensional Lumber, White Pine, Pressure Treated Yellow Pine, Pine Cedar, Oak, Poplar, Fir.
- Plywood & Panels: Birch, Fir, Pine, Cedar, OSB, Advantech, PVC.
- Engineered Products: LVL, I-Joist, Rimboard, Parallam Beams.
- Building Materials: Moulding & Millwork, Columns, Wood Siding, Drywall & Insulation, Concrete.
To browse our whole selection of Johnson Lumber building materials, you can visit our website or stop by one of our two locations to see us in person.
Choose Johnson Lumber for Your Building Material Needs
When it comes to selecting the right building materials for your next home renovation project, you can trust Johnson Lumber as your go-to source.
With our extensive experience and expertise in the industry, we provide a wide range of top-quality materials to meet your unique requirements. Contact our team today and let us assist you in bringing your vision to life.
