The commercial construction industry is continually evolving, with new materials and techniques emerging to meet the demands of modern businesses.
In 2024, several construction materials stand out for their strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
These materials offer unique advantages that can enhance the performance, safety, and overall value of commercial buildings.
Keep reading as we dive deeper into seven strong and durable construction materials that are setting a new standard this year.
Epoxy Terrazzo Floors: Long-Lasting and Low-Maintenance
Epoxy terrazzo floors are a combination of terrazzo chips and epoxy resin, resulting in a seamless and durable flooring solution that resists stains and impact damage. These floors are highly resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for handling both foot and machine traffic. Epoxy terrazzo floors also offer a wide range of design possibilities, allowing architects and designers to create unique and visually appealing spaces. They can also be treated with slip-resistant finishes to improve tackiness and promote the safety of all building occupants.
Epoxy terrazzo floors are a combination of terrazzo chips and epoxy resin, resulting in a seamless and durable flooring solution that resists stains and impact damage. These floors are highly resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for handling both foot and machine traffic. Epoxy terrazzo floors also offer a wide range of design possibilities, allowing architects and designers to create unique and visually appealing spaces. They can also be treated with slip-resistant finishes to improve tackiness and promote the safety of all building occupants.
Glass: Durable and Energy-Efficient
Glass is a versatile and durable material that has become increasingly popular in commercial construction. Its transparent nature allows for ample natural light, creating bright and inviting spaces, making it a favorable material in creating energy-efficient buildings. Glass can also handle surprisingly large loads, be treated with UV-resistant glazes, and is fully recyclable, making it a strong choice for optimizing the use/re-use cycle. From customizable glass partition walls to fire rated glass doors, glass materials are gaining major traction in 2024 for both interior and exterior applications.
Companies like CarbonQuest and Pozzotive are incorporating carbon extracted from demolished buildings and recycled glass, this new concrete reduces the carbon footprint of construction materials significantly.
Metal: Strong and Elegant
Steel stands as a pillar of durability and sustainability in modern construction, offering long-term strength and resilience against corrosion. Properly designed and constructed steel structures, leveraging laboratory and field-tested practices, showcase remarkable service life.
With a variety of protective coatings available, from barrier paints to advanced zinc galvanization, steel is safeguarded against environmental challenges, ensuring it remains a robust component of any building.
Furthermore, steel’s inorganic nature makes it resistant to mold, vermin, and the detrimental effects of moisture, enhancing the structural integrity and longevity of constructions. Its dimensional stability, unaffected by changes in moisture or humidity, guarantees a reliable, maintenance-low framework for all types of buildings, particularly beneficial in mid-rise construction where the precision and durability of materials are paramount.
Metal handrails are also a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to any commercial building. They provide sturdy support while offering a stunning accent that complements the overall design of a commercial structure. Handrail systems made from stainless steel or aluminum are highly durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to corrosion. With their sleek and modern appearance, metal handrail systems contribute to a professional and polished look that can help secure stairwells, patios, and elevated walkways in commercial buildings.
Hurricane-Grade Storm Windows: Shielding Against Nature’s Wrath
With more and more regions of the country prone to severe weather in the era of climate change, hurricane-grade storm windows are a crucial investment. These windows are designed to withstand high winds and heavy impacts, providing superior protection for the building and its occupants.
Capable of withstanding winds up to 250 MPH and projectile impact up to 100 MPH, hurricane-grade storm windows can fortify the building envelope and contribute to energy efficiency, reducing air transfer in commercial structures and slashing utility costs. Made from robust structural steel frames, hurricane-grade storm windows make a great option for new construction or retrofitting old structures to conform to modern building codes.
Brick Rainscreen Cladding: Durability and Architectural Appeal
Brick rainscreen cladding combines the classic beauty of brick with the benefits of a rainscreen system. This innovative approach enhances the building’s thermal performance, moisture management, and overall durability. Brick rainscreen cladding offers a wide array of colors and textures, providing architects with design flexibility and the ability to create timeless and visually striking facades.
Fire Resistant Materials: Safety in the Face of Adversity
Fire safety is a paramount concern in commercial construction, especially in the current landscape of rampant wildfires striking the country with greater frequency. Fire-resistant materials, such as fire-rated doors and metal roofing, are essential for compartmentalizing and containing fires.
In addition, it is important to remember that wildfires are not the only threat to commercial buildings. Regularly check the electrical wiring, assess the HVAC system, and perform a routine fire damper inspection to guarantee that no fires emerge from the building’s systems. By incorporating these materials and best practices into the building’s infrastructure, businesses can mitigate the risk of extensive damage and ensure the safety of occupants and assets.
Top 2024 Picks: Strong and Durable Construction Materials for Long-Lasting Commercial Buildings
In 2024, commercial construction materials are evolving to meet the industry’s growing demands for durability, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. By integrating these high-performance materials into their projects, businesses can create commercial spaces that are safe, efficient, and visually stunning, supporting their long-term success and growth. For more of the latest trends shaping New Jersey’s commercial construction landscape, explore more resources at March Construction for leading industry insights and Click Here to Subscribe!
Article Created in Collaboration with Brian Jeffries
Brian Jeffries, writer and owner of Building Product Advisor, loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on construction projects and materials.
