2.1.4. Use/Maintenance

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define durability in the context of construction materials.

   Hint

   Think about how long a material can endure without needing replacement.

2. 2.

   Explain why assessing embodied energy is important when selecting construction materials.

   Hint

   Consider the full lifecycle of a material including its production and transportation.

3. 3.

   What is meant by 'embodied energy'?

   • The energy used during the use phase of a material
   • The total energy consumed in material production
   • The energy needed to transport materials

   Hint

   Look at the full lifecycle, not just one phase.

4. 4.

   True or False: Higher durability in construction materials generally leads to reduced maintenance needs.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about what happens to less durable materials.

5. 5.

   Consider a new building project. What factors would be most important when selecting materials based on durability, embodied energy, and emissions? Discuss each factor's impact.

   Hint

   Think about how each factor relates to sustainability.

6. 6.

   Analyze how the choice between two materials for flooring - vinyl versus bamboo - affects embodied energy and emissions. List pros and cons.

   Hint

   Consider lifecycle analysis between natural and synthetic materials.