Natural Construction Materials Stand the Test of Time
Times have changed since natural construction materials like mud, clay and rock were all there were to work with as far as building. But as the years go by there is still much evidence that many structures that were once made with these elements are still standing.
While it is true that different parts of the world present different environmental challenges to a structure, there are various tests any home must endure to be worthy of inhabiting, namely extreme temperature change and time span. Construction materials have advanced to elements that are able to be recycled for reuse without losing any inherent stability properties. And there are constantly new reinforcement and protection applications being developed for nearly every construction material used today.
Construction Materials
The application abilities in earthen construction materials are self-evident. Clay and soil present high thermal control. Earthen built homes are able to remain cool in hot temperatures and warm in cold temperatures. The temperature changes occur gradually, which coincides with seasonal adjustments.
Although building methods have changed with tool and equipment developments, wood products as construction materials have maintained their relevance. Many homes, while steel reinforced are still being built with wood, and much interior design in the “cottage,” or “classic” style involves wood, as in cabinets, bedposts, and patio decks. Wood remains one of the most widely used construction materials, still the main element of musical instruments, and a common choice for decorative flooring.
A simple fact is that many structures built with mud, earth, rock, and wood even centuries ago are still standing. In the constant social and industrial quest for building advancement, the adage “The Old Standby” still applies to construction materials.