Definition of Construction Products and Building Materials

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Differentiation of Construction Products and Building Materials in the Construction Sector

In the construction sector, the term building materials is often used, and to a lesser extent, construction products. But what exactly do these terms mean? Are they synonymous, or are there differences between them?

At first glance, these expressions might seem synonymous and therefore interchangeable. This is a widespread conception in the sector, but the reality is more complex. There is a subtle but important difference between construction products and building materials, at least from the perspective of the European Union (EU) market.

Certainly, each of them holds its own semantic value; however, this article will review what these terms imply in the European market.

What does building material mean?

Building materials are all the elements used in the construction of buildings, from housing to commercial and industrial structures. Unlike construction products, building materials specifically focus on the materials used to construct the different parts of a building. This term is widely used in the common language.

What does construction product mean?

The first thing that should be noted is that the term construction product encompasses materials, elements or components used in all areas of construction: building and civil engineering and not only in building construction. However, it also has another additional interpretation.

In the European market, Regulation (EU) No 305/2011 applies, which is the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), establishing harmonized conditions for the marketing of construction products. The Regulation defines construction products as follows:

“any product or kit which is produced and placed on the market for incorporation in a permanent manner in construction works or parts thereof and the performance of which has an effect on the performance of the construction works with respect to the basic requirements for construction works.”

Therefore, a construction product consistently fulfils its function throughout its service life in construction. A clear example of what would not be a construction product is formwork, as it is a temporary element removed once its function is fulfilled.

It should be noted that national certificates and assessments from Member States may have a broader interpretation of what constitutes a construction product. However, this interpretation is limited to the national market.

What is the difference between construction products and building materials?

Therefore, the main and most important difference between these two terms is that construction product implies additional legal and technical interpretation, associated with certification and marketing in the European market.

Similarly to building materials, other existing terms such as building products or construction materials also lack this additional interpretation inherent to construction products, but of course with their own semantic value.

Sometimes, it is impossible to draw a clear line that completely separates construction products from building materials since they may be the same in many cases. For example, mineral wool insulation is both a building material used in various parts of a building and a construction product covered by a harmonized standard (EN 13162).

Inconveniences in the construction products market

Unfortunately, many actors in the construction sector do not correctly differentiate these two concepts, contributing to confusion in the market. Both professionals and industry experts need to understand these distinctions to ensure compliance with the Regulation and facilitate effective communication in the construction sector. Misuse of the Construction Products Regulation can lead to legal liabilities for the manufacturer.