Wood, unlike most processed building materials, is an organic material that can be used in its natural state. Factors that influence its strength are density, natural defects (knots, grain, etc.), and moisture content. Advantages include strength, renewability and beauty. Wood can also be easily shaped or cut to size on the jobsite, or it may be prefabricated in the shop.

Plastics by nature are capable of being molded or shaped into specific forms. The advantages to their use in structural and nonstructural building applications are many. They are...