Using rubber in construction

Construction is an industry where materials must be long-lasting and hard wearing to stand up to the rigours of the building process as well as the constant use of the building after its completion. Rubber is one such material that can be used in multiple products in construction due its exemplary properties. While rubber does have a lower tensile strength than metal, it has a higher elasticity. Materials can work together to compliment strengths and minimise weaknesses. Temperature resistance One benefit of rubber is that it holds up to extreme heat and cold. This means it can be used in building projects around the world, even where it will be exposed to the harshest of climates. In some climates it will be exposed to both heat and cold, and will experience warming and cooling over the course of the day so rubber is an ideal choice as it does not expand and contract like metal does. Flame retardant and low smoke and toxicity Rubber is also flame retardant and also has low smoke and toxicity when it does burn. There is a big advantage as buildings now are held to strict fire codes that regulate materials. It is a material that does not catch fire easily, and if it does, it does not produce a large amount of smoke and toxins unlike other materials do. Absorption When compared to metal, rubber is considerably more absorptive and is able to absorb stress, movement and vibrations. This is particularly helpful in areas where buildings may be subject to high winds or ground movements. Rubber also protects the joints in buildings and promotes flexibility. It is also good at absorbing noise which makes it ideal for sound insulation. Environmental resistance As buildings are exposed to the elements on a regular basis, it is important that materials used in construction can resist heat, sunlight, ozone, corrosion, moisture and pollution. All of these elements can limit the life span of materials and mean more frequent maintenance and repairs, so it is important to use materials that will resist degradation as much as possible. Water resistant Another benefit of rubber is that it doesn’t absorb water, so is resistant to mold and doesn’t rust. This is important in the use of buildings as mold can be a safety risk and public health hazard rendering a building unusable but can also degrade the materials it is on. If you need a rubber company that can work with you on products for your next construction project, get in touch.

For more information on Using rubber in construction talk to Aquaseal Rubber Ltd