Material Groups

External Material

A water control layer is a protective element in building construction designed to address natural phenomena such as rain, wind, and sun. It acts as a barrier against water infiltration, preventing moisture from entering the building envelope. This layer is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the building, protecting it from water damage, and preventing potential issues like mould growth and structural decay. It is typically placed on the exterior side of the building and can be made of weather-resistant membranes, sealants, or coatings.

Concrete/Masonry

Concrete and masonry are dense building materials commonly used throughout the wall makeup. Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates (e.g., sand, gravel), forming a solid, strong, and durable construction material. Masonry refers to building structures made from individual units (such as bricks, blocks, or stones) bound together with mortar. Both concrete and masonry provide stability, load-bearing capacity, and resistance to fire, making them essential components in many construction projects.

Panel

A panel is a composite material often composed of a rigid foam core sandwiched between robust metal or timber skins. These panels offer a balance of structural strength and insulation properties. They are used in various applications for efficient and lightweight construction solutions, including walls, roofs, and floors.

Mass Timber

Mass timber is a type of construction material made from large solid wood panels or beams that are laminated together to form load-bearing elements. It is known for its sustainability, strength, and aesthetics, making it a popular choice in modern construction projects. Mass timber can be used in walls, floors, and roofs, providing an alternative to traditional steel and concrete structures.

Bracing

Bracing refers to structural components used to address wind-loading forces. These forces exert pressure on a building's structure, particularly during severe weather events, and bracing systems are implemented to enhance the building's stability and resistance to these forces. Bracing can take various forms, such as diagonal braces, shear walls, or moment frames, depending on the building's design and requirements.

Air Cavity

An air cavity is a space between building control layers, commonly found in exterior walls, used to address ventilation and drainage. It helps create a buffer zone between the outer cladding and the main wall structure, allowing air circulation and moisture management. Proper ventilation is essential for preventing condensation, moisture buildup, and mould growth within the wall assembly.

Bridged Air Cavity

Bridged air cavity refers to framing systems that incorporate a space or cavity between the cladding and the main wall structure. This space can range from simple battens to more advanced rainscreen systems. The bridged air cavity enhances the building's thermal performance and allows for effective moisture management and drainage.

Composite

A composite is a building system combining framing elements with an insulation layer. These systems provide structural support and thermal insulation, streamlining the construction process and improving energy efficiency.

Membrane

A membrane is a water control layer that manages water, vapour, and heat transfer. It acts as a barrier to prevent water infiltration and can also control the movement of water vapour, which is important for managing condensation within the building envelope. Additionally, some membranes offer thermal resistance, contributing to the structure's overall energy efficiency.

Insulation

Insulation is a thermal control layer that addresses heat and noise transfer. It is used to reduce heat flow between the interior and exterior of a building, thereby improving energy efficiency and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Insulation materials come in various forms, including fibreglass, foam, and mineral wool, each offering different levels of thermal resistance.

Internal Material

An internal material refers to the interior layer of a building that serves multiple functions, including addressing heat, noise, moisture, and aesthetics. This layer plays a significant role in providing comfort and functionality to the building's occupants while also contributing to its overall interior design and appearance. Internal materials may include drywall, paint, wall coverings, acoustic panels, and other finishing materials.