Jakarta, ID
Tuesday, May 29 2012, 15:32 PM

Supplement

Green building materials

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Following are several building materials commonly considered when constructing an environmentally friendly building.

Brick

Bricks selected for construction are those that can absorb heat. Positive characteristics of natural bricks include being fireproof, strong at high pressure and relatively waterproof. A natural brick is also soundproof.

Ceramics

Ceramic tiles can be used to cover walls instead of wallpaper. A tiled wall is easy to maintain because it does not need painting and is easily cleaned. Ceramic tiles have various motifs, with elegant and exclusive color choices.

Aluminum

Many people have started to use aluminum for window and door frames instead of wood. Some of the advantages of aluminum are that it can be recycled and is free of toxins and cancer-causing substances. Aluminum is also rustproof, easy to maintain and more practical. It is also suited to the modern lifestyle.

Glass

Glass can be used for roofing, especially in a high building. The use of glass for roofing can save energy because it allows sunlight into a room, making it unnecessary to turn on a light during daylight hours.

Light steel

Light steel can be used as framing for a roof. The use of light steel instead of wood can help reduce illegal logging and thus contribute to forest conservation. Light steel is stronger than wood, is termite resistant, rust proof and flexible. Another advantage of light steel is that it is easily installed.