What are the most commonly used building materials in today's environments?

The most commonly used building materials in today's environments include wood and masonry. Wood remains a staple in residential construction due to its availability, workability, and cost-effectiveness, while masonry is often utilized for its durability and structural integrity.

Wood is widely favored for framing and finishing, owing to its lightweight nature and ease of handling, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from residential homes to commercial buildings. This material also offers good insulation properties and is often used where aesthetic qualities are a concern.

Masonry, which includes materials such as brick and concrete blocks, is essential for providing strength and stability to structures. It is commonly used in foundations, walls, and load-bearing components, contributing to the overall resilience of building designs, especially in regions prone to extreme weather.

While steel and glass are prevalent in commercial architecture for their modern aesthetic and strength, they are not as widely used in residential construction. Similarly, concrete and brick are important but are often less preferred compared to the versatility and ease of wood in many scenarios. Gypsum and plastic, while useful in specific applications like drywall and certain finishes, do not form the primary structural components of modern buildings.