The construction industry is constantly evolving, with new materials and technologies emerging all the time. These innovations are driven by the need for stronger, lighter, and more sustainable building materials. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most cutting-edge construction materials on the market today and discuss the mechanical properties that set them apart from the competition.
Rainscreen Cladding Systems
Rainscreen cladding is a type of exterior wall system that consists of a layer of cladding material attached to a frame that is separated from the wall by a ventilated air space. This system provides a number of benefits, including increased thermal performance, improved moisture management, and enhanced durability.
Although there are numerous types of rainscreen cladding systems, many of which feature engineered brick and wood facades, acm panels systems are some of the most popular for people looking for versatility and performance in their building exterior. ACM panel systems are a type of rainscreen cladding system that is made from aluminum composite material. ACM panels are lightweight, durable, and fire-resistant, making them an ideal choice for a variety of applications. They can also be manufactured in a number of colors and designs to enhance the curb appeal of any building exterior.
Structural Insulated Panels
Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are a type of building material that is made of two layers of oriented strand board (OSB) with a core of foam insulation. SIPs are lightweight and easy to install, and they can be used to build homes, offices, and other types of buildings. They are typically manufactured off-site using CAD processes, adding efficiency to the construction process through quick erection once the panels reach the construction site. Due to their insulative core, SIPs are also very energy-efficient, as they can help to reduce heat loss and gain. This can help save money on energy bills and make the building more resistant to pests.
Air Quality Controls
Indoor air quality is a major concern for building owners and occupants, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the spread of infectious diseases, poor air quality can lead to a variety of health problems, including asthma, allergies, and respiratory infections. This can inhibit the productivity of employees and the satisfaction of guests.
There are a number of different ways to improve indoor air quality, including using air scrubbers and backdraft dampers. Air scrubbers work as a filtration device, removing toxins from the air. Backdraft dampers promote the one-way flow of conditioned air, ensuring that treated air does not flow back into the HVAC ducts and risk contamination.
For food and medical facilities, uv light disinfection in hospitals is a new technology that is being used to improve indoor air quality in restaurants and healthcare facilities. UV light disinfection can kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can spread through the air and cause infections to building occupants.
Fire Resistant Roofing
In addition to the rampant wildfires that continue to pop up with greater frequency across the country, buildings that have significant amounts of wiring and light fixtures are under increased risk of a mechanical fire. To help avoid this hazard, fire-resistant roofing materials can help to protect buildings by localizing fires and preventing them from spreading to adjacent areas of the facility. There are a number of different types of fire-resistant roofing materials available, including metal roofing, tile roofing, and composite asphalt shingles. Look for any type of roofing material with a Class A fire rating to give the building the highest degree of protection in the event of a blaze.
Polyiso Insulation
Polyiso insulation is a type of insulation that is made of a closed-cell foam plastic. Polyiso insulation is lightweight and easy to install with the right insulation tools. It has a very high R-value, which means that it is very effective at insulating buildings. Polyiso insulation is also resistant to moisture and pests, and it can help to improve a building’s energy efficiency, qualifying for green building credits in most states.
Hurricane Grade Storm Windows
Hurricane-grade storm windows are a type of window that is designed to withstand high winds and projectile impact. While they are ideal for coastal regions prone to hurricanes, they are an equally valuable choice for any region prone to severe weather.
Hurricane-grade storm windows are typically made of impact-resistant glass or polycarbonate, and they are often installed with shutters or other protective devices. Hurricane-grade storm windows can typically withstand winds over 250 MPH and projectile impact up to 100 MPH, helping ensure the structural integrity of the building in all weather conditions.
Improve Structural Strength With Cutting-Edge Materials
The construction industry is constantly evolving, and new materials are being developed all the time to meet the emergent demands of society and Mother Nature. By using cutting-edge construction materials, architects can create buildings that are more sustainable, safer, and more resilient. For more ideas on how to employ cutting-edge construction materials into your next projects, check out the resources at Sumer Innovations for the latest in the BIM industry!
Todd Gillman is a freelance writer that loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on residential and commercial real estate. He lives in Land O’ Lakes, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and researching real estate trends in his free time. Todd’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a new construction industry resource site.
