Learn how Past and Modern Construction and Building Materials are Related

Ever since time immemorial, the history of construction has been of an unfathomable scale. During those times, people wandered through the forests searching for food and shelter. Being nomads, they were not confined to a specific location. Eventually, as the years passed by, people began to erect shelters that were designed out of leaves, branches, and animal skin to safeguard them from inclement climatic conditions. As a result, the human species had begun to construct shelters that are highly durable and flexible.

Construction and Building Materials

Let us begin with the Evolution of architecture

• Stone age:--

Old Stone Age which is also known as Neolithic Age was the final period before implementing woodwork for construction purposes. Some of the tools were extracted from the natural substances such as bones, wood, grasses, and animal fiber. The initial mud bricks which belong to the late Stone Age period were designed manually.

• Copper Age and Bronze age:--

Copper Age is known as the initial stage of the Bronze Age. Copper was quite popular before 5000 BC and during the Bronze Period around 3100 BC. Axes and Chisel were some of the most popular tools used in these ages. This type of construction and building material were highly flexible and durable. However, a brand new tool was introduced during the Copper Age and it was utilized to construct the rock-cut architecture.

• Iron Age construction:---

With the advent of civil engineering and infrastructure, certain techniques were implemented during the Iron Age. The initial large-scale structures which were designed out of mud bricks were discovered in ancient Mesopotamia.

• Medieval construction:---

It marks the end of the Roman era and the commencement of mega projects such as cathedrals and castles. Bricks continued to be one of the sought-after valuable materials in that period, especially in places including Denmark, North Germany, and Poland. Besides, the pile driver was developed during the 1500 AD and the scale of castle structures was exceptional.

• Construction during the Renaissance period:--

The Renaissance which commenced in the 14th century and lasted until the 17th century witnessed the introduction of traditional styles of art and architecture. There has been a quantum leap in the technology adopted by Western Europe. The water mills were leveraged to transform trees into planks. Even some of the renowned architects took advantage of ironwork in roof carpentry.

• Construction amidst the 17th century:--

With the emergence of contemporary science, the structures erected during the 17th century resorted to scale techniques and rule of thumb. Manufacturing of glass had begun during this period wherein the initial cast plate glass originated in France.

Conclusion

So the above-mentioned information proves beneficial to be acquainted with the connection between past and current construction techniques. The construction and building materials harnessed during those times are some of the major factors behind the advancement of mankind. The construction industry underwent a revolution due to the efforts of architects and engineers enabling us to lead a better quality of life.