Wise Selection of Building Materials

Various type of building materials are available in the market. The holistic designers need to consider architectural and interior related material after considering the broad technical literature of the product. The various characteristics should therefore be considered before choosing them. Some of the factors to be kept in mind are-

A. Local Availability– Materials which are locally available suit the climatic conditions. Such materials help in conservation of energy and hence reduction of cost. For example Agra red is a stone which can suit anywhere but it would have best suitability with the climate in Agra itself.

B. Ecological Impact– The ecological impact of the building material should be considered. For instance asbestos has been considered, as the contaminating building material, therefore it should not be used.

C. Energy Consumption– Before considering any building material, check the energy
consumption. Energy conservation is important, good conductors generally transfer energy faster and at a higher rate while insulators are poor conductor of heat, light and energy. Insulators should be preferred in comparison to conductors in case of energy consumption.

D. Out gassing– There are building materials available which outgas harmful chemicals. These chemicals can be dangerous and create serious diseases for the user. For example combustible material emits CO, which is very harmful for human body.

E. Natural Occurrence– Before purchasing building material one must prioritize materials
having natural occurrences. For example solid wood should be preferred in comparison to pressed woods like block board, particle board or MDF. Natural stone should be preferred in comparison to any artificial material preferred.

F. Diffusion & breathing-The building material opted should be capable of breathing. The air and energy circulation should not stop.

G. Hygroscopicity– Hygroscopicity is the quality of material to absorb and hold water. The level of hygroscopicity should also be considered before purchasing it. It should be made sure that the material has hygroscopicity.

H. Fire Retardani & Termite Proof– Prefer those building materials which are termite
proof and fire retardant. They would ensure safety at users end.

Other than the above mentioned characteristics. Capacity to absorb toxic vapors’ and gases, sound transmission, Heat storage capacity, Resistance to electrostatic charges, surface tempera­ture and conductivity should also be considered. The building materials we use, our building practices, and attitudes to technology and science need reconsideration, and for all natural systems. Natural hygroscope (breathing) building materials absorb and release moisture readily; filtering out air pollution and releasing clear air in the transac­tion. Such materials should replace mechanical ventilation and air conditioning. Terrestrial magnetism needs to be mapped, anomalies avoided and building systems used that will not destroy the natural electromagnetic field. Building materials that allow cosmic and gamma rays from deep space to pass into the building’s interior unchanged are preferable. Planning of settlements should integrate low density housing with open spacebar recreation, perm culture, indigenous vegetation, shelter belts, areas of companion planting, and areas devoted to fish and livestock. The bioclimate affects human and wellbeing.