Building material�is material used for�construction. Many naturally occurring substances, such as�clay, rocks,�sand, and�wood, even twigs and leaves, have been used to construct�buildings. Apart from naturally occurring materials, many man-made products are in use, some more and some less synthetic. The manufacturing of building materials is an established industry in many countries and the use of these materials is typically segmented into specific specialty trades, such as�carpentry,�insulation,�plumbing, and�roofing�work. They provide the make-up of�habitats�and�structures�including�homes.

The construction industry uses a variety of building materials for different aspects of a home build. Architects consult with structural engineers on the�load-bearing capabilities�of the materials with which they design, and the most common materials are concrete, steel, wood, masonry, and stone. Each has different strength, weight, and durability, which makes it right for various uses. There are national standards and testing methods that govern the use of building materials in the construction industry, so that they can be relied on for providing structural integrity. Architects also choose materials based on cost and aesthetics.

Building materials are usually categorized into two sources: natural and man made. Materials such as stone and wood are natural, and concrete, masonry, and steel are manmade. But both must be prepared or treated before they�re used in building. Here is a list of building materials that are commonly used in construction.