UNIVERSITY OF LA SALETTE, INC

Dubinan East, Santiago City

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE

MODULE: MATERIALS AS COST AND DESIGN FACTOR

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, students should be able to:

Discuss the Materials as Cost and Design Factor
Recall Various Types of Building Materials and Their Properties
Understand the Relationship Between Material Choices and Their Impact on Project Costs

Topic Outline

Introduction to Building Materials

Types of Building Materials
Properties of Building Materials
Cost Implications of Material Selection
Material as a Design Factor
Cost Control in Building Design
Case Studies

Module Content

1. Introduction to Building Materials

Building materials form the foundation of any architectural project, serving as the
essential components that shape the structure, functionality, and aesthetics of a built
environment. From traditional materials like wood, stone, and clay to modern innovations
such as reinforced concrete, steel, and composites, the selection of materials plays a critical
role in determining a building's durability, cost, environmental impact, and design flexibility.

The evolution of building materials has been driven by advancements in technology,

changing architectural trends, and the need for sustainable construction practices. Traditional
materials, prized for their availability and cultural significance, have been complemented or
replaced in many cases by engineered solutions that offer improved strength, efficiency, and
adaptability. For example, lightweight materials like aluminum and prefabricated panels have
enabled innovative design approaches, while eco-friendly options such as bamboo and
recycled materials address growing concerns about environmental sustainability.

Material selection is a complex process influenced by factors such as cost, local

availability, climate, structural requirements, and aesthetic preferences. Each material brings
unique properties to a project, from thermal insulation and load-bearing capacity to fire
resistance and acoustic performance. Architects and engineers must consider these
attributes alongside the project’s design goals and budget constraints to ensure an optimal
outcome.

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In the modern era, the integration of smart materials, which can adapt to environmental
changes, is transforming the construction industry. These innovations, coupled with a growing
emphasis on sustainability, highlight the critical importance of building materials in shaping
not only the physical structure of a project but also its long-term performance and ecological
footprint.

2. Types of Building Materials

Building materials are broadly categorized based on their composition, properties, and
applications in construction. Each type serves specific functions and contributes uniquely to a
structure's design, strength, and performance. Below is an overview of common types of
building materials:

A. Natural Materials
These materials are derived directly from nature with minimal processing, making them
environmentally friendly and often culturally significant.

Wood: Versatile and renewable, wood is widely used for structural framing, flooring, and
finishes. Its natural aesthetics and insulation properties make it a popular choice for
residential and commercial projects.

Stone: Durable and resilient, stone is commonly used for foundations, walls, and decorative
elements. Granite, limestone, and sandstone are frequently utilized.

Clay: Often shaped into bricks or tiles, clay is a cost-effective material known for its thermal
insulation and longevity.

a. Engineered Materials
These are manufactured or processed to improve their performance and adaptability for
modern construction needs.

Concrete: A blend of cement, sand, gravel, and water, concrete is a staple in construction due
to its strength, versatility, and durability. Reinforced concrete, incorporating steel bars, is
used for structural elements like beams and columns.

Steel: Valued for its tensile strength and flexibility, steel is essential for high-rise buildings,
bridges, and industrial structures. Its recyclability also supports sustainable construction
practices.

Glass: Widely used for windows, facades, and interior partitions, glass offers transparency,
aesthetic appeal, and energy-efficient options such as double-glazing.

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b. Synthetic Materials
These materials are created through chemical processes and offer specialized properties
tailored to specific construction applications.

Plastic: Lightweight and resistant to moisture, plastic is often used for piping, insulation, and
cladding.

Composite Materials: Combining two or more materials, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber,
composites offer high strength-to-weight ratios and durability.

c. Sustainable Materials
With growing environmental concerns, the use of eco-friendly materials has gained
prominence.

Bamboo: Fast-growing and renewable, bamboo is used for flooring, scaffolding, and
decorative purposes.

Recycled Materials: Materials like reclaimed wood, recycled concrete, and metal reduce waste
and minimize the carbon footprint of construction.

Green Insulation: Made from recycled paper, wool, or hemp, green insulation enhances energy
efficiency while being environmentally friendly.

d. Advanced and Smart Materials

Innovative materials designed for specific applications are transforming the
construction industry.

Smart Glass: Adjustable transparency based on environmental conditions or user control,

often used in energy-efficient buildings.

Self-Healing Concrete: Contains bacteria or polymers that repair cracks, extending the
material's lifespan.

Phase Change Materials (PCMs): Regulate indoor temperatures by storing and releasing
thermal energy.

By understanding the properties and applications of various building materials, architects

and engineers can make informed choices that align with the structural, functional, and
environmental goals of their projects.

3. Properties of Building Materials

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Building materials or construction materials are the major requirement in this modern
age of technology. There are many types of building materials used for different construction
works.

Properties of Building Materials

For a material to be considered as building material, it should have required engineering

properties suitable for construction works. These properties of building materials are
responsible for its quality and capacity and helps to decide applications of these material.
Such properties of building materials are categorized as follows.
1. Physical properties
2. Mechanical properties
3. Chemical properties
4. Electrical properties
5. Magnetic properties
6. Thermal properties

Physical Properties of Building Materials

These are the properties required to estimate the quality and condition of the material
without any external force. The physical properties of engineering materials are as follows.
1. Bulk density
2. Porosity
3. Durability
4. Density
5. Density index
6. Specific gravity
7. Fire resistance
8. Frost resistance
9. Weathering resistance
10. Spalling resistance
11. Water absorption
12. Water permeability
13. Hygroscopicity
14. Coefficient of softening
15. Refractoriness

Bulk Density of Building Materials

Bulk density is the ratio of mass to the volume of the material in its natural state that is
including voids and pores. It is expressed in kg/m3. Bulk density influences the mechanical
properties of materials like strength, heat and conductivity etc. bulk density values of some of
the engineering materials are given below.
Building material Bulk density (kg/m3)

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Brick 1600 - 1800

Sand 1450 - 1650

Steel 7850

Heavy concrete Light

1800 – 2500 500 - 1800
concrete

Granite 2500 – 2700

Porosity of Building Materials

Porosity gives the volume of the material occupied by pores. It is the ratio of volume of
pores to the volume of material. Porosity influences many properties like thermal conductivity,
strength, bulk density, durability etc.

Durability of Building Materials

The property of a material to withstand against the combined action of atmospheric and
other factors is known as durability of material. If the material is more durable, it will be
useful for longer life. Maintenance cost of material is dependent of durability.

Density of Building Materials

Density is the ratio of mass of the material to its volume in homogeneous state. Almost all
the physical properties of materials are influenced by its density values. Density values of
some building materials are given below.
Material Density (kg/m3)

Steel 7800 – 7900

Brick 2500 -2800

Granite 2600 – 2900

Density Index
Ratio of bulk density of material to its density is termed as density index. Hence it gives
the volume of solid matter in the material. In nature, fully dense material is not available so,
density index is always less than 1 for any building material.

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Specific Gravity of Building Materials

Specific gravity is the ratio of mass of given substance to the mass of water at 4oC for the
equal volumes. Specific gravity of some materials is listed below.
Material Specific gravity

Steel 7.82

Cast iron 7.20

Aluminum 2.72

Fire Resistance of Building Materials

The ability to withstand against fire without changing its shape and other properties. Fire
resistance of a material is tested by the combined actions of water and fire. Fireproof
materials should provide more safety in case of fire.

Frost Resistance
The ability of a material to resist freezing or thawing is called frost resistance. It is
depends upon the density and bulk density of material. Denser materials will have more frost
resistance. Moist material have low frost resistance and they lose their strength in freezing
and become brittle.

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Weathering Resistance
The property of a material to withstand against all atmospheric actions without losing its
strength and shape. Weathering effects the durability of material. For example corrosion
occurs in iron due to weathering. To resist this paint layer is provided.

Spalling Resistance
The ability of a material to undergo certain number of cycles of sharp temperature
variations without failing is known as spalling resistance. It is the dependent of coefficient of
linear expansion.

Water Absorption
The capacity of a material to absorb and retain water in it is known as water absorption. It
is expressed in % of weight of dry material. It depends up on the size, shape and number of
pores of material.

Water Permeability
The ability of a material to permit water through it is called water permeability. Dense
materials like glass metals etc. are called impervious materials which cannot allow water
through it.

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Hygroscopicity
Hygroscopicity is the property of a material to absorb water vapor from the air. It depends
on the relative humidity, porosity, air temperature etc.

Coefficient of Softening
Coefficient of softening of a material is the ration of compressive strength of a saturated
material to its compressive strength in dry state. It affects the strength of water absorbent
materials like soil.

Refractoriness
The property of a material which cannot melts or lose its shape at prolonged high
temperatures (1580oC or more). Example: fire clay is high refractory material.

Mechanical Properties of Building Materials

Mechanical properties of the materials are find out by applying external forces on them.
These are very important properties which are responsible for behavior of a material in its job.
The mechanical properties are,
1. Strength
2. Hardness

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3. Elasticity
4. Plasticity
5. Brittleness
6. Fatigue
7. Impact strength
8. Abrasion resistance
9. Creep

Strength of Building Materials

The capacity of a material to resist failure caused by loads acting on it is called as
strength. The load may be compressive, tensile or bending. It is determined by dividing the
ultimate load taken by the material with its cross sectional area. Strength is an important
property for any construction materials. So, to provide maximum safety in strength, factor of
safety is provided for materials and it is selected depending on nature of work, quality of
material, economic conditions etc.

Hardness of Building Materials

The property of a materials to resist scratching by a herder body. MOHS scale is used to
determine the hardness of a materials. Hardness is most important to decide the usage of
particular aggregate. It also influences the workability.

Elasticity of Building Materials

The capacity of a material to regain its initial shape and size after removal of load is
known as elasticity and the material is called as elastic material. Ideally elastic materials
obey Hooke’s law in which stress is directly proportional to strain. Which gives modulus of
elasticity as the ratio of unit stress to unit deformation. Higher the value of modulus of
elasticity lower the deformations.

Plasticity
When the load is applied on the material, if it will undergo permanent deformation without
cracking and retain this shape after the removal of load then it is said to be plastic material
and this property is called as plasticity. They give resistance against bending, impact etc.
Examples: steel, hot bitumen etc.

Brittleness
When the material is subjected to load, if it fails suddenly without causing any deformation
then it is called brittle material and this property is called as brittleness. Examples: concrete,
cast-iron etc.

Fatigue
If a material is subjected to repeated loads, then the failure occurs at some point which is
lower than the failure point caused by steady loads. This behavior is known as fatigue.
Impact Strength

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If a material is subjected to sudden loads and it will undergo some deformation without
causing rupture is known as its impact strength. It designates the toughness of material.

Abrasion Resistance
The loss of material due to rubbing of particles while working is called abrasion. The
abrasion resistance for a material makes it durable and provided long life.

Creep
Creep the deformation caused by constant loads for long periods. It is time dependent and
occurs at very slow rate. It is almost negligible in normal conditions. But at high temperature
conditions creep occur rapidly.

Chemical Properties of Building Materials

The properties of materials against the chemical actions or chemical combinations are
termed as chemical properties. And they are
1. Chemical resistance
2. Corrosion resistance

Chemical Resistance of Building Materials

The ability of a construction materials to resist the effects by chemicals like acids, salts
and alkalis is known as chemical resistance. Underground installations, constructions near
sea etc. should be built with great chemical resistance.

Corrosion Resistance
Formation of rust (iron oxide) in metals, when they are subjected to atmosphere is called
as corrosion. So, the metals should be corrosive resistant. To increase the corrosion
resistance proper measures should be considered. Otherwise it will damage the whole
structure.

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Electrical Properties of Building Materials

The properties of a material to conduct or to resist electricity through them are electrical
properties of material. For example, wood have great electric resistance and stainless steel is
a good conductor of electricity.

Magnetic Properties of Building Materials

The magnetic properties of materials like permeability, hysteresis etc. are required in the
case of generators etc. iron is magnetic material and aluminum is non-magnetic material.

Thermal Properties of Building Materials

1. Thermal capacity
2. Thermal conductivity
3. Thermal resistivity
4. Specific heat

Thermal Capacity of Building Materials

Thermal capacity is the property of a material to absorb heat and it is required to design
proper ventilation. It influences the thermal stability of walls. It is expressed in J/N oC and it is
calculated by below formula. Thermal capacity, T = [H/(M(T2 - T1))] Where H = quantity of heat
required to increase the temperature from T1 to T2 T1 = Initial temperature T2 = Final
temperature M = Mass of material in N.

Thermal Conductivity
The amount of heat transferred through unit area of specimen with unit thickness in unit
time is termed as thermal conductivity. It is measured in kelvins. It depends on material
structure, porosity, density and moisture content. High porous materials, moist materials have
more thermal conductivity.

Thermal Resistivity
It is the ability to resist heat conduction. And it is the reciprocal of thermal conductivity.
When it is multiplied by thickness of material it gives thermal resistance. Thermal resistivity
of soil varies from 30 to 500 0C-cm/W.

Specific Heat
Specific heat is the quantity of heat required to heat 1 N of material by 1oC. Specific heat is
useful when we use the material in high temperature areas. Specific heat values of some
engineering materials are given below.
Material Specific heat J/N oC

Steel 0.046 x 103

Wood 0.239 to 0.27 x 103

Stone 0.075 to 0.09 X 103

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4. Cost Implications of Material Selection

Material selection plays a pivotal role in shaping both the initial and long-term costs of
construction projects. The choice of materials not only impacts the upfront budget but also
influences operational expenses, maintenance requirements, and the overall lifecycle cost of
a building. Architects and engineers must carefully weigh cost implications against factors
such as durability, functionality, and sustainability to achieve an optimal balance between
quality and affordability.

A. Initial Costs
The upfront expense of acquiring materials is a significant factor in the overall project
budget.

Premium vs. Budget Materials: High-end materials like marble, glass, and stainless steel
are often more expensive but offer aesthetic appeal and durability. In contrast,
budget-friendly options like vinyl or concrete may lower upfront costs but could require more
maintenance over time.

Local vs. Imported Materials: Sourcing materials locally can reduce transportation costs
and delivery times. However, certain projects may necessitate imported materials, which can
significantly inflate costs due to tariffs, shipping, and handling.

B. Maintenance and Repair Costs

The durability and resilience of materials greatly affect long-term maintenance expenses.

Durable Materials: Investing in high-durability materials like treated steel, stone, or

composite cladding can reduce repair and replacement costs. For example, fiber-cement
siding requires less maintenance compared to wood.

Vulnerable Materials: Materials prone to wear, such as untreated wood or low-grade

concrete, may result in higher maintenance costs, offsetting initial savings.

C. Energy Efficiency and Operational Costs

Material properties, such as thermal insulation and energy performance, can influence
building operation costs.

Insulating Materials: High-performance insulation materials like rigid foam or fiberglass

can lower energy bills by reducing heating and cooling demands.

Energy-Generating Materials: Innovative options like photovoltaic panels may have higher
initial costs but offer long-term savings through renewable energy generation.

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D. Sustainability and Regulatory Compliance

Sustainable materials can attract additional costs upfront but may yield financial benefits
in the long run.

Eco-Friendly Materials: Options like bamboo, recycled steel, or green insulation typically
cost more initially but align with environmental standards and can qualify for green
certifications, potentially reducing regulatory fees or taxes.

Regulatory Requirements: In regions with strict building codes, selecting compliant

materials can avoid penalties and ensure smooth project execution.

E. Lifecycle Costs
The total cost of ownership, including construction, operation, and disposal, is influenced
by material choice.

Long-Lasting Materials: Materials with extended lifespans, such as concrete or brick,

often justify higher upfront investments due to lower replacement frequencies.

End-of-Life Costs: Recyclable materials may reduce demolition and disposal costs, adding
value to the material selection process.

F. Opportunity Costs
The decision to use specific materials may also result in opportunity costs, which reflect
the benefits lost when one option is chosen over another.

For example, opting for luxurious materials may enhance a building’s market value but
could limit resources for other project features, such as landscaping or advanced
technologies.

5. Material as a Design Factor

Materials play a central role in architectural design, influencing not only the structural
integrity of a building but also its aesthetics, functionality, and environmental impact.
Thoughtful material selection can enhance a project’s visual appeal, align it with sustainability
goals, and shape the overall user experience. By integrating material considerations into the
design process, architects and engineers can create structures that are both practical and
inspiring.

A. Aesthetic Impact
Materials significantly affect a building’s visual character and design language.

Textures and Colors: The natural grains of wood, the polished surface of marble, or the
transparency of glass contribute to a structure's aesthetic appeal. These choices set the tone
for the design, whether modern, rustic, or classical.

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Expression of Authenticity: Exposed materials like raw concrete or unpainted steel create
an honest, industrial aesthetic that resonates with contemporary design principles.

B. Structural Performance
The strength, weight, and flexibility of materials directly influence the feasibility of design
concepts.
Load-Bearing Capacity: High-strength materials like steel and reinforced concrete enable
the construction of large spans, cantilevers, and skyscrapers.

Lightweight Alternatives: Materials such as aluminum or cross-laminated timber (CLT)

reduce structural weight, allowing for innovative and efficient designs.

C. Environmental Integration
Material choice can enhance a building’s harmony with its surroundings.

Local Materials: Using locally sourced stone, clay, or timber can help integrate the
building into its geographical context while reducing transportation costs.

Transparency and Light: Glass facades can connect indoor and outdoor spaces, blending
architecture with nature and improving natural lighting.

D. Functional Considerations
Materials determine how well a building serves its intended purpose.

Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: Materials like insulation foam, gypsum board, or acoustic
panels improve comfort and usability.

Durability in Specific Environments: Weather-resistant materials, such as treated wood or

stainless steel, are ideal for harsh climates.

E. Sustainability and Innovation

Modern architecture increasingly prioritizes eco-friendly and innovative materials to
address environmental concerns.

Sustainable Options: Bamboo, recycled concrete, and green insulation contribute to lower
carbon footprints and align with sustainable design certifications.

Smart Materials: Technologies like smart glass or phase-change materials adapt to

environmental conditions, improving energy efficiency and functionality.

F. Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Materials often convey cultural identity and values.

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Traditional Choices: Materials like adobe, thatch, or stone reflect local traditions and
heritage.

Innovative Approaches: High-tech materials, such as carbon fiber or titanium, symbolize

progress and modernity.

7. Cost as a Design Factor

While materials shape design, their cost often dictates feasibility. Balancing high-quality
materials with budget constraints ensures both design excellence and financial viability.

6. Cost Control in Building Design

Cost control is a critical aspect of architectural design, ensuring that projects remain
within budget while maintaining quality and functionality. Effective cost management begins in
the early stages of design and continues throughout the construction process. By strategically
planning and monitoring expenses, architects, engineers, and project managers can balance
client expectations, material selection, and construction techniques, ultimately delivering
value-driven solutions.

A. Importance of Cost Control

Cost overruns can jeopardize project completion, strain client relationships, and reduce
profitability. Implementing cost control measures ensures:
1. Adherence to project budgets.
2. Prevention of financial risks.
3. Efficient allocation of resources.
4. Achievement of design and performance goals.

B. Key Strategies for Cost Control

Early Cost Estimation: Developing a detailed cost estimate during the conceptual and
schematic design phases helps set realistic budgets. Techniques such as quantity surveying
and cost modeling can forecast expenses with accuracy.

Value Engineering: Identifying alternative materials or methods that reduce costs without
compromising quality. For example, using precast concrete panels instead of traditional
masonry.

Scope Management: Clearly defining the project scope and avoiding unnecessary changes
during construction. Scope creep often leads to increased costs and delays.

Design Simplification: Streamlining complex designs can reduce construction time and
labor costs. Simplified geometries and modular components often result in significant
savings.

C. Material Selection and Procurement

Material choices heavily influence project costs.

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Cost-Effective Materials: Opting for durable yet affordable materials, such as engineered
wood or lightweight steel, can optimize costs.

Bulk Purchasing: Procuring materials in large quantities often leads to discounts and
reduced transportation expenses.

Local Sourcing: Using locally available materials minimizes shipping costs and supports
the local economy.

D. Construction Techniques
Innovative construction methods can enhance cost efficiency.

Prefabrication and Modular Construction: Off-site fabrication reduces on-site labor costs
and shortens construction timelines.

Lean Construction: Implementing lean principles to eliminate waste, optimize resources,

and improve workflow efficiency.

E. Monitoring and Adjustments

Regular financial tracking ensures that the project stays within budget.
Cost Reporting: Periodic reports highlight deviations from the budget and identify potential
cost-saving opportunities.
Contingency Planning: Allocating a contingency fund for unexpected expenses reduces
financial stress during unforeseen circumstances.

F. Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Examining real-world examples of cost-controlled projects provides valuable insights.
For instance, the Sydney Opera House exemplifies how cost overruns can occur due to scope
changes and design complexities, emphasizing the need for meticulous cost management.

G. Balancing Cost and Quality

Achieving cost control doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Striking a balance involves:
Prioritizing essential features while minimizing non-critical elements.
Ensuring materials and workmanship meet performance standards.
Aligning design goals with budget constraints through client consultation.

7. Case Studies

Case Study: The Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest), Milan, Italy

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Project Overview

The Bosco Verticale is a complex of two residential skyscrapers designed by Boeri Studio
and located in the Porta Nuova district of Milan, Italy. They have a height of 116 metres and 84
m and within the complex is an 11-storey office building.

The Bosco Verticale, designed by architect Stefano Boeri, consists of two residential
towers in Milan, Italy, featuring a unique vertical forest concept. Completed in 2014, the project
integrates over 9,000 trees, 20,000 plants, and 11,000 shrubs, significantly enhancing
biodiversity and improving air quality in an urban environment.

Objectives
To create sustainable housing solutions in urban areas.
To improve the quality of life for residents through green architecture.
To reduce energy consumption and promote biodiversity.

Material Selection

Reinforced Concrete
Properties: High compressive strength, durability, and fire resistance.
Cost Implications: While initial costs are moderate, concrete's longevity reduces
long-term maintenance expenses. It also allows for complex shapes, contributing to the
architectural design.

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Glass Facades
Properties: Provides natural light, views, and aesthetic appeal.
Cost Implications: Glass has a higher initial cost compared to concrete but enhances the
aesthetic value and thermal performance when combined with low-emissivity (Low-E)
coatings.

Wood
Properties: Renewable, aesthetically pleasing, and lightweight.
Cost Implications: Wood was used for terraces and planters, promoting a warm aesthetic.
Although the initial cost is higher, the renewable nature of wood contributes to the
sustainability goals of the project.

Greenery (Plants and Trees)

Properties: Provides insulation, reduces energy consumption, and improves air quality.
Cost Implications: While the initial planting and maintenance costs are significant, the
long-term benefits include reduced cooling costs and enhanced property value.

Design Factor

The design integrates a significant amount of greenery, which not only adds aesthetic
value but also improves the building's energy efficiency. The vegetation serves as a natural
insulation layer, reducing heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. The design also
promotes biodiversity, providing habitats for birds and insects.
Cost Control Strategies

Lifecycle Cost Analysis

A thorough analysis was conducted to evaluate the total costs over the lifespan of the
materials. This analysis considered initial costs, maintenance, and energy savings, leading to
more informed decisions.

Value Engineering

The design team implemented value engineering principles to optimize material choices
without compromising design integrity. For example, selecting energy-efficient glass and
sustainable wood options that aligned with both budget and design goals.

Government Incentives

The project benefited from government incentives for sustainable building practices,
which helped offset some initial costs associated with the extensive greenery and
energy-efficient systems.

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Outcomes

Sustainability: The Bosco Verticale has become a model for sustainable urban living,
showcasing how integrating nature into buildings can lead to environmental benefits and
improved quality of life.

Economic Value: The project has increased property values in the surrounding area,
demonstrating how thoughtful material selection can enhance marketability.
Community Impact: The greenery attracts wildlife, improves air quality, and creates a more
pleasant living environment for residents, contributing to overall community well-being.

Lessons Learned

Material Choices Matter: Selecting materials with both aesthetic and functional properties
can lead to significant long-term benefits, including energy efficiency and reduced
maintenance costs.

Sustainable Design Pays Off: Investing in sustainable materials and practices can enhance
both the environmental footprint of a building and its economic viability.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Effective collaboration among architects, engineers, and
landscape designers is crucial to achieving a successful integration of materials and design
elements.

Conclusion
The Bosco Verticale serves as a prime example of how innovative material selection and
sustainable design can create a positive impact on both project costs and urban living
conditions. By prioritizing sustainability and integrating natural elements, the project has
redefined urban architecture, paving the way for future developments that prioritize both
human and environmental well-being.

CLASS ASSESSMENT
Quiz: Multiple-choice and short-answer questions on types and properties of materials.

Group Discussion: Analyze a recent project focusing on material selection and its impact on
cost and design.

Case Study Analysis: Present findings from a case study, emphasizing the relationship
between material choices and project outcomes.

References
Ching, F. D. K., & Binggeli, C. (2018). Building Construction Illustrated. Wiley.

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A. H. D. & M. S. K. (2018). Material Properties of Building Materials. Journal of Construction

Materials.

Ashby, M. F. (2011). Materials Selection in Mechanical Design. Butterworth-Heinemann.

Paul, A. (2020). Cost Control in Building Design. Wiley.

Kibert, C. J. (2016). Sustainable Construction: Green Building Design and Delivery. Wiley.

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