Essential Building Materials and Construction Components

Posted on May 23, 2025 in Medicine & Health

Roofing Systems and Moisture Protection

Roof structure refers to the underlying framework of a roof. Roofing involves covering the roof structure to keep out moisture and protect the building from the elements.

Residential Roofing Layers

Residential roofs typically consist of two primary layers:

  • Underlayment: This base layer, often composed of several sub-layers, is crucial for keeping water out. It may involve materials like tin caps and plywood.
  • Cap Layer: This protective layer shields the underlayment from impact, sun exposure, and water.

Common Roofing Components and Application

A typical roofing assembly might include:

  1. Plywood sheathing
  2. Asphalt felts or oil-based petroleum products
  3. Underlayment

Some roofing systems, like modified bitumen, involve multiple layers. For example, a first asphalt layer might be followed by a second layer of glued-down bitumen, which is melted and applied to thoroughly soak the first layer.

Types of Roofing Materials

Composition Shingles

Composition shingles are a practical and widely used roofing material. They are made from felt material covered with granules, are inorganic, and can mimic the appearance of slate shingles.

Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, though they are expensive. Key characteristics include:

  • Made of natural stone
  • Highly durable and can be reused
  • Fire resistant
  • Will not rust
  • Holes are typically made for installation on various roof pitches, such as 4:12 or 20:12.

Clay Tile

Clay tiles offer a distinctive look and are available in several forms:

  • Mission or Spanish Tile: Often referred to as barrel tile, common in European and traditional architectural styles.
  • Pantiles: Characterized by an S-shape that allows for overlapping installation.
  • Interlocking Tiles: Designed to fit together securely.

Sheet Metal Roofing

Sheet metal roofing is a strong and water-resistant option, often featuring continuous panels. It is suitable for roofs with a minimum pitch of 3:12. Common materials include:

  • Copper: An expensive but highly durable option.
  • Steel/Aluminum: More accessible and cost-effective alternatives.
  • Stainless Steel: Offers excellent corrosion resistance.

Galvalume is a popular steel product known for its 20-year rust-free performance.

Roof Drainage Systems

Effective roof drainage is essential and typically requires at least two ways to remove water. Drainage components can be both functional and decorative:

  • Gutters: Horizontal channels that collect water from the roof edge.
  • Downspouts: Vertical pipes that carry water from gutters to the ground or drainage system.
  • Scuppers: Openings in parapet walls or roof edges that allow water to drain.
  • Conductor Heads and Leaders: Decorative and functional elements often used with scuppers to direct water.

Many systems also incorporate a backup drainage system for added protection.

Interior and Exterior Finishes

Plaster

Plaster is a finish applied to interior surfaces, similar in concept to concrete. It consists of sand aggregate, water, and a binder (such as Portland cement or gypsum plaster). Plaster, especially gypsum-based, is fire-resistant and absorbs sound. However, it will crumble if exposed to water.

Stucco

Stucco is essentially plaster formulated for exterior application, designed to withstand outdoor conditions.

Three-Coat Plaster System

This traditional method involves three distinct layers over a metal lath:

  1. Scratch Coat: A rough, furrowed base layer that provides adhesion.
  2. Brown Coat (Level Coat): A thicker layer applied to level the surface.
  3. Finish Coat: A very thin, strong top layer that provides the final smooth surface.

Two-Coat Plaster System

A faster application method, typically used over gypsum lath, which offers some water resistance:

  1. Brown Coat: The primary leveling layer.
  2. Finish Coat: The final smooth surface.

Veneer Plaster

Veneer plaster is a specialized system consisting of one or two thin layers of plaster. It is known for its resistance to moisture but is generally more expensive.

Benefits of Plaster

Plaster offers several advantages:

  • Effective moisture barrier (when properly applied and protected)
  • Promotes hygiene due to its smooth, cleanable surface

Plaster Application Over Masonry

Plaster can be applied directly to masonry surfaces if they are flat and rough enough for adhesion, or over furring strips to create an air gap. Plaster can also be applied to ceilings.

Gypsum Board (Drywall)

Gypsum board, commonly known as drywall, is a widely used interior finish. Installation typically involves:

  1. Attaching gypsum board panels to framing.
  2. Applying joint compound to seams.
  3. Embedding joint tape over the compound.
  4. Applying additional layers of joint compound.
  5. Sanding the dried compound smooth.

Special trims like J-Beads are used for clean edges.

Flooring Materials

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is made from cooked clay and often includes porcelain (a type of glass). It is highly durable, water-resistant, easy to clean due to its dense nature, and long-lasting.

Types of Ceramic Tile

  • Glazed Tile: The most common type, used in homes for floors, walls, and ceilings. It is suitable for low-traffic areas and very easy to clean.
  • Quarry and Paver Tile: Thicker and stronger, these unglazed tiles are ideal for high-traffic areas like malls. They are made from clay or porcelain.
  • Small Ceramic Tiles: Often 2″x2″ for backsplashes or 1’x1′ sheets for bathrooms. These smaller, often unglazed tiles, can be made from materials like marble or granite, and are less prone to breaking.

Tile Installation Methods

Tiles are typically installed using:

  • Thinset mortar
  • Other types of mortars
  • Adhesives (glues)

Wood Flooring

Wood flooring offers a classic and durable finish. It requires a dry environment and is easy to clean and maintain its appearance.

  • Strip Flooring: Consists of fairly narrow planks, often around 3 1/4 inches wide, installed with connections like tongue-and-groove.
  • Block Flooring: A more economical option that resembles tile and is typically glued down.

Sleepers are sometimes used beneath wood floors to keep them elevated and protect against moisture. Parquet is a type of wood flooring arranged in geometric patterns. A water barrier can also be used for added protection.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a composite material known for its moisture resistance and tendency to be quieter underfoot compared to some other hard surfaces.

Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT)

VCT is a type of flooring made from plastic (PVC). It is a cost-effective option that is resistant to cracking. VCT is typically glued down and can be cleaned with chemicals and polished to maintain its appearance.

Ceiling Systems

Acoustical Ceiling Tile

Acoustical ceiling tiles are designed to absorb sound and prevent echo. They come in various shapes, patterns, and sizes, and allow for easy access to the plenum space above them. They are often made of mineral fibers and can be fire-resistant and promote hygiene, especially in areas like kitchens (where vinyl-faced tiles are common).

Grid Methods for Acoustical Ceilings

Acoustical ceiling tiles are installed using different grid systems:

  • Exposed Grid: The grid system is visible.
  • Recessed Grid: The grid system is partially hidden.
  • Concealed Grid: The grid system is completely hidden, creating a seamless look.

The grid typically consists of main runners and cross tees.

Doors and Hardware

Doors

Doors serve multiple functions, acting as a barrier against elements, animals, insects, and unauthorized entry. They also contribute to comfort by controlling air conditioning and provide fire resistance.

Door Parts

Key components of a door assembly include:

  • Head jamb
  • Side jambs
  • Door stop
  • Threshold
  • Casing (trim around the opening)

Door Hardware

Essential door hardware includes:

  • Panic Hardware: Designed for quick egress, eliminating the need for a traditional handle in emergencies.
  • Door Closer: Automatically closes the door, important for fire and smoke containment.

Common door dimensions are 3 feet by 6 feet 8 inches, and they are typically made of wood or steel.