If you are planning to construct a brand-new home, you may have the following questions:

• How many bedrooms do we need?
• What should the kitchen look like?
• What types of windows should we use?
• What type of material will the house be built with?

While some homeowners want traditional options like bricks and timber, it is best to use concrete since it can mimic the look and feel of wood and bricks. In fact, concrete homes look more modern, and have many benefits that may help you decide to use this material.

Concrete is abundant

Concrete is abundant and easy to source, so it is cheaper than wood and bricks. In fact, its primary raw material comes from limestone, which is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. This makes it more sustainable and there is a lot of it in the market, produced by several major concrete manufacturers. There is also an eco-friendly option like green cement, which is produced using several concrete by-products.

Concrete homes are more durable

Concrete homes are extremely durable and long-lasting and will not rust, rot, or burn. In fact, a concrete house will last at least two to three times longer than homes built with timber and bricks.

Cheaper Heating/Cooling Bills

Concrete can retain and absorb heat, so it can essentially reduce your cooling and heating bills thanks to its thermal mass capabilities. Also, homes with concrete foundations, floors, and walls can greatly reduce heat and can reflect solar radiation – making your home cooler during summer.

Low maintenance homes

Concrete requires less maintenance and will hold their shape and integrity for decades. In fact, the exterior of a concrete wall can resist damage from the elements like heavy rains and strong winds when compared with a wood-frame wall. Also, a robust and solid concrete wall won’t dent and can resist flying debris and hail damage.

Fire resistance

Concrete homes are more fire-resistant and can even limit the spread of flames, unlike wood and steel. In fact, steel can melt during a fire, and wood can easily burn. However, it is important to monitor the temperature when using concrete as hot weather can effect results if not accounted for. 

Earthquake resistance

Most homes that are built with reinforced concrete can withstand destructive forces like earthquakes. Reinforced concrete walls are likely to resist the tensile and compression forces produced by an earthquake. Also, a study conducted by Construction Technology Laboratories has found that reinforced concrete has six times the racking load resistance of a wooden wall.

Overall, modern homes will use various building materials, but concrete is the most used and logical option, especially if you want a sturdy, low-maintenance house.