The construction industry is evolving, ultimately driven by a demand for more sustainable, durable materials. This is true across all construction niches. Whether it’s building homes, offices, or infrastructure, today’s projects require materials that are not only environmentally friendly but also long-lasting and efficient.
Here’s the good news: Advancements in technology and innovation have made it possible to accomplish these goals without breaking the bank. There’s so much innovation in this space right now and there are a variety of materials that meet the demands that are currently in place.
Let’s look at six sustainable and durable materials making the biggest impact.
- Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)
Cross-laminated timber, or CLT, is a game-changer in sustainable construction. Made from layers of wood bonded together at right angles, CLT offers impressive strength and stability, making it a viable alternative to concrete and steel for structural components.
CLT is not only renewable but also has a significantly smaller carbon footprint than traditional building materials. It sequesters carbon, keeping it out of the atmosphere for the lifespan of the building. Beyond sustainability, CLT is lightweight and easy to work with, reducing transportation and installation costs.
With its ability to support large-scale projects while being environmentally friendly, CLT is quickly becoming a go-to choice for builders looking to combine sustainability with performance. It’s the perfect hybrid material for builders who want a little bit of everything baked into a single product.
- Recycled Steel
Steel is known for its durability, and when recycled, it becomes extremely sustainable. Recycled steel maintains the same strength and integrity as virgin steel but requires significantly less energy to produce.
In fact, using recycled steel can reduce energy consumption by up to 74 percent compared to new steel production. It’s also endlessly recyclable without losing its properties, making it one of the most sustainable materials available.
- Bamboo
Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that, to be honest, is taking the construction world by storm. Its rapid growth rate – some species can grow up to 3 feet in a single day – makes it one of the most sustainable materials on the planet.
Want to hear something surprising? Bamboo’s natural strength rivals that of steel. Plus, it’s simultaneously flexible enough to make it ideal for earthquake-prone areas. It’s commonly used for flooring, scaffolding, and even structural elements in certain types of buildings.
When sourced responsibly, bamboo is a sustainable material that aligns with eco-friendly construction practices. Plus, its natural aesthetic adds a touch of warmth and uniqueness to projects.
- SentryGlas®
Glass has always been a versatile material in construction, but SentryGlas® takes it to the next level with its durability and sustainability. This advanced interlayer is used in laminated glass applications, offering superior strength, water resistance, and UV control.
SentryGlas® is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and resist delamination over time, making it an ideal choice for projects where longevity and safety are paramount. Its UV control properties help reduce heat buildup inside buildings, contributing to energy efficiency.
From skylights and façades to railings and safety barriers, SentryGlas® is one of the few materials on the market right now that is actually pushing the boundaries of what glass can do in construction. It’s definitely worth exploring more.
- Hempcrete
Hempcrete is a bio-composite material made from the woody core of the hemp plant mixed with lime and water. Lightweight yet strong, hempcrete is an excellent insulator that regulates temperature and humidity naturally, reducing the need for artificial climate control.
Unlike traditional concrete, hempcrete is carbon-negative, meaning it absorbs more CO2 during the hemp plant’s growth than is emitted during its production and use. This makes it a highly sustainable alternative for walls, insulation, and non-load-bearing structures.
While it’s not as strong as concrete for structural components, its environmental benefits and versatility make hempcrete a standout material in sustainable construction.
- Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood brings rustic charm and sustainability to construction projects. It’s usually sourced from old buildings, barns, or even shipping pallets. Interestingly, reclaimed wood reduces the demand for new timber, which helps to preserve forests and reduce waste.
What makes reclaimed wood so appealing is its character and durability. Aged wood tends to be harder and more stable than freshly cut lumber, as it has already endured years of expansion and contraction. It’s perfect for flooring, paneling, furniture, and decorative elements.
Using reclaimed wood in your projects not only adds a unique aesthetic but also aligns with eco-conscious construction practices by giving old materials a new purpose. If you ask most people, that’s pretty cool!
Why Sustainable Materials Matter
The construction industry is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. The hope is that this is changing. And thanks to materials like the six highlighted in this article, it’s happening faster than we previously thought possible.
