Lesson 22 - Building Materials

In most places where there are people, there are buildings. A building is a structure with four walls and a roof, and it can be made of many different materials. Some buildings are made from materials found nearby. For example, if there are only palm leaves, the buildings will be made of palm leaves. Most often, however, builders use wood, stone, or brick.

No matter what other materials are used, most buildings have some wood in them. Because wood is light, it is easy to work with. Over time, builders have learned that some wood is better for use in buildings than others. The wood from oak and elm trees is the best. These woods are called hardwoods. Today, houses with hardwood beams and floors are very popular.

People have built with bricks for more than 6,000 years. Bricks are easy to use, and they can be made in different sizes. Bricklayers often make intricate patterns with bricks. Some builders use bricks for entire houses, but others use them just for chimneys or walkways. Throughout the world you can still see ancient and medieval cities that are enclosed within brick walls. These walled cities tell us that bricks are strong and can last for centuries.

Unlike wood and bricks, stone is not often used to build buildings. It is used to decorate them. There are several reasons for this. Stone is hard, heavy, and expensive. Also, not many people know how to work with stone. Today, marble, granite, slate, and sandstone are used to make parts of a building beautiful.

What materials are used in the houses in your community? Has an earthquake, a tornado, or a hurricane ever struck your area? What would happen to the buildings if this occurred?

Builders have to think of these things. They ask and answer many questions before they begin a building.

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