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What Are the Most Durable Home Renovation Materials?

By
Home Builder

Designing a new space comes with a lot of challenges. The paint has to be the right color, the appliances need to fit – it can feel overwhelming at times. There are also a ton of different types of building materials to choose from.

Here's a list of the most durable options to help you narrow things down.

Brick

Brick is one of the longest-lasting building materials available on the market. It's been used for centuries to construct all types of structures and comes in a variety of colors. If you're wavering between choices for siding, look towards brick. It's sustainable, low-maintenance and most importantly, secure. Brick offers insulation control and temperature regulation. It also holds up after years of weathering – just look at the Great Wall of China!

Steel

This is an obvious one, but it's worth noting. Steel is the number one pick for commercial architects because it can last a lifetime. In residential housing projects, steel can provide support to structures. It also offers a design aspect when applied to window and door frames. You might also use it for roofing, which looks great on more industrial renovations. 

Clay

When it comes to roofing, there are a dozen different materials you can use. Clay tiles offer strength and durability while looking wonderful. They're cost-effective and recyclable, which makes them a great option if you're on a tight budget. Best of all, they can stand up against all types of weather. No matter where your renovation is, clay tiles are a wonderful choice. 

Hardwood

Hardwood is a classic, robust choice for flooring. You can pick from a variety of woods, like oak, birch, cherry and walnut. Wood looks fantastic in every home and gives off a warm, comforting vibe. It's easy to take care of as well. Most importantly, hardwood is built to last. Builders have used it for generations, which is why when you pull up old tile during a renovation, you're likely to see wood underneath. With proper care, hardwood will last decades. 

Tile

Tile is perfect for your flooring needs. It also looks terrific as a backsplash in kitchens and bathrooms. Porcelain tile is tough because of the way it's made. When it comes out of the kiln, it's so dense that it's heavier than granite. The color of the tile will never wear away, even as its structure slowly does. Even when it begins to look less than ideal, the grout around it can be replaced, which allows it to last even longer. Tile is a cheaper option that looks great just about anywhere you put it. 

Copper

Everything from gutters to sinks is made from copper. It provides curb appeal, lasts for more than 100 years and doesn't require much upkeep. It stands up against corrosion and even provides protection from lightning. One drawback is that it's quite a bit more expensive than tradition materials. That said, because of its resilience, it's a worthwhile investment.

Concrete

Searching for tough flooring that's built to last? Look no further. Concrete is a unique option that not many people consider. It has a lengthy list of pros – it's customizable, thermal and affordable. It's also incredibly easy to clean. You can even wire your concrete floors to emit heat. Before you settle on tile or hardwood, do yourself a favor and conduct a bit of research to see if concrete is right for your build. 

Grab a Hammer

Now that you know the most durable renovation materials, you can approach your project with your best foot forward. Sometimes, it's necessary to think outside the box and consider all options before making a decision.

Any and all of these materials will provide you with a bang for your buck.

Robin Wells
WellSwept Chimneys - Victoria Harbour, ON
Giving Peace Of Mind One Chimney At A Time

Thanks for post.  And yes some are more durable than others and some are better suited to a particular location or design.  It depends.  But research and choose wisely.

Dec 22, 2019 10:22 AM
James White

Absolutely, Robin! There's no one size fits all solution, so knowing your region and your home matters.

Dec 30, 2019 06:18 AM