Welp MagazineDuring the supply chain shortage in 2020, the commercial building market gave alternative building materials to accommodate contractors. However, many realized that some materials are better than their counterparts. Look at the material trends in the commercial building industry to see emerging products.
Architectural Aluminum Grills
Architectural aluminum grills offer a practical and architectural purpose. They let heat and cool air into interior spaces while adding a visually pleasing element to buildings. Usually, the grill has a square face, placed in a particular direction to direct air into the room. Most aluminum grills have an air control device to regulate airflow.
Polyethylene Pipes
Polyethylene pipes are common solutions for commercial and industrial piping. Polyethylene is a thermoplastic made from the polymerization of ethylene. The pipes usually transfer liquid and gases. In particular, water line pipes are a leading application for the material.
Corrosion resistance and durability are two benefits of polyethylene pipes for water lines. Plus, the pipes don’t rust because they’re not susceptible to iron-oxidizing bacteria, making them ideal for commercial properties. Additionally, the pipes last between 50 to 100 years with minimal maintenance.
Cross-Laminated Timber
Cross-laminated timber, CLT, has planks of glued and layered wood perpendicular to the previous plank. The wood layers create a stiff and durable structure similar to plywood but thicker with more compressive strength. Furthermore, CLT is a cost-effective choice for multi-story buildings. CLT has better thermal performance and longevity than steel and concrete blocks, making them ideal for commercial applications.
Self-Healing Concrete
Self-healing concrete has saturated fungi that join surrounding materials into a new structural material. It can grow in the pores of the concrete, adding to its security. Furthermore, the concrete can grow into cracks, repairing them all on its own. Thus, fulfilling its duty as “self-healing.”
Self-healing concrete is a trend in the commercial building industry because it’s sustainable and durable. Some materials in normal cement contribute to carbon pollution. In addition, deterioration reduces the lifespan of the concrete, requiring labor-intensive repairs. Self-healing concrete is a sustainable solution, creating a long-lasting concrete product while reducing carbon pollutants.
Wool Bricks
Wool bricks are sustainable construction materials requiring less energy than traditional bricks or concrete blocks. This is because they don’t require firing (which creates airborne toxins). Manufacturers add wool fibers to clay materials to make wool bricks. Lastly, they incorporate a natural polymer to hold the bricks together.
