| Choosing building materials is no easy task-the | | | | Ceiling and roofing - Poured concrete is easily the |
| stuff you choose can literally make or break your | | | | best choice for ceilings, at least in terms of |
| house. But with the ever-growing range of building | | | | durability. But there are other factors to consider, |
| materials, even seasoned home designers are | | | | such as the weight it supports and the ceiling area. |
| often confused. How do you know which ones | | | | Wood can provide additional support, especially for |
| are right for your home and budget? This guide | | | | decks, balconies, and overhanging roofs. The |
| runs you through the main areas of the home | | | | roofing exterior is both an aesthetic and structural |
| and how to make the right choice for each one. | | | | choice. Some of the most popular are tile, brick, |
| Flooring - There are dozens of choices when it | | | | and copper. |
| comes to home flooring. Choose one that fits | | | | Interior surfaces - These include counters, |
| your lifestyle, budget, and home décor. | | | | platforms, stairs, and other irregularities within the |
| Hardwood and tile are among the most popular | | | | floor and walls. The easy choice would be to |
| choices, as they fit almost any theme. Stone | | | | make them the same material as the rest of the |
| flooring is expensive, but it virtually lasts forever. | | | | house. However, if you're planning to sell the |
| Decide what features you want and what you | | | | house later on, you may want a less permanent |
| can do without, and look for a material that fits | | | | setup so that future residents can customize it |
| the bill. | | | | themselves. |
| Walls - The choice here is more on | | | | Movable surfaces - Although not exactly building |
| reinforcements than the building material, since the | | | | materials, furniture and other movables have to |
| material is standard for most walls. Ask your | | | | work with the rest of the home. Not all materials |
| contractor about protective features such as | | | | will work with everything else. For example, |
| sealing and reinforced studs, which can add | | | | heavy teak furniture might damage a soft cork |
| structural strength to the walls. Other features | | | | floor. The best thing to do is consult an interior |
| worth looking into are the shock-absorbent | | | | designer and get a professional opinion. |
| interiors and flame-resistant coats. | | | | |