A Beginner’s Guide to Building Materials: What Every Homeowner in Oman Should Know

April 2, 2025 hakeem.nala@gmail.com

Building a home in Oman is an exciting venture, but the country’s unique climate—scorching heat, sandy winds, and coastal humidity—means choosing the right materials is crucial. For beginners, navigating the world of construction can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the most common building materials in Oman, their uses, benefits, and pricing considerations, so you can make informed decisions for a durable, comfortable home.

Why Climate Matters in Material Selection

Oman’s environment demands materials that:

Resist heat to keep interiors cool.
Withstand sand and dust to avoid wear and tear.
Combat humidity in coastal areas to prevent mold or corrosion.
Require minimal upkeep to save time and money.

Let’s explore the materials that meet these needs.

1. Concrete Blocks

Uses: Walls (indoor and outdoor), foundations, and partitions.
Benefits:

Excellent thermal insulation against heat.
Fire-resistant and durable in sandy conditions.
Affordable compared to other masonry options.
Pricing:
Basic hollow blocks: OMR 0.150–0.250 per block.
Dense blocks for load-bearing walls: Slightly higher cost.
Pro Tip: Use thicker blocks for exterior walls to improve heat resistance.

2. Cement

Uses: Binding bricks, plastering walls, and laying flooring.
Benefits:

Creates strong, long-lasting structures.
Sulfate-resistant types are ideal for humid coastal areas.
Pricing:
Standard Portland cement: OMR 2–3 per 50kg bag.
Specialty cement (e.g., waterproof): Costs 10–15% more.
Pro Tip: Store cement in a dry place to prevent clumping.

3. Steel Reinforcement Bars (Rebar)

Uses: Strengthening concrete in foundations, columns, and beams.
Benefits:

Prevents cracks during earthquakes or temperature shifts.
Corrosion-resistant coatings extend lifespan in humid climates.
Pricing:
Varies by thickness (e.g., 8mm to 16mm): OMR 1.5–3 per meter.
Pro Tip: Opt for epoxy-coated rebars near coastal zones.

4. Roofing Materials

Uses: Protecting homes from sun, rain, and sand.
Benefits:

Metal roofing: Lightweight, reflects heat, and lasts 50+ years.
Concrete tiles: Affordable and sturdy for flat or sloped roofs.
Pricing:
Metal sheets: OMR 5–15 per square meter.
Concrete tiles: OMR 3–8 per square meter.
Pro Tip: Install reflective coatings to reduce indoor temperatures.

5. Thermal Insulation

Uses: Roofs, walls, and attics to block heat transfer.
Benefits:

Reduces AC costs by up to 30%.
Materials like foam boards or fiberglass are lightweight and mold-resistant.
Pricing:
Foam boards: OMR 1.5–4 per square meter.
Spray foam: Higher upfront cost but superior coverage.
Pro Tip: Prioritize insulating the roof—it’s where most heat enters.

6. Plaster and Mortar

Uses: Smoothing walls (plaster) and bonding blocks (mortar).
Benefits:

Waterproof plaster protects bathrooms and kitchens.
Pre-mixed mortar ensures consistency and strength.
Pricing:
Plaster: OMR 1–2 per 25kg bag.
Mortar: OMR 1.5–3 per 25kg bag.
Pro Tip: Choose gypsum plaster for faster drying in humid areas.

7. Glass and Windows

Uses: Windows, doors, and skylights for light and ventilation.
Benefits:

Double-glazed or tinted glass blocks UV rays.
Tempered glass is safer and shatter-resistant.
Pricing:
Standard glass: OMR 5–10 per square meter.
Energy-efficient glass: OMR 15–25 per square meter.
Pro Tip: Pair glass with aluminum frames for rust-proof durability.

8. Weather-Resistant Paints

Uses: Protecting and beautifying walls.
Benefits:

Light colors reflect sunlight, reducing indoor heat.
Anti-fungal paints prevent mold in humid rooms.
Pricing:
Economy-grade: OMR 3–6 per liter.
Premium-grade (washable, UV-resistant): OMR 8–12 per liter.
Pro Tip: Apply a primer first to enhance paint adhesion.

9. Plumbing Materials

Uses: Pipes, fittings, and fixtures for water supply and drainage.
Benefits:

PVC/CPVC pipes resist corrosion and leaks.
Insulated pipes prevent bursts in extreme heat.
Pricing:
PVC pipes: OMR 0.5–2 per meter.
High-pressure pipes: Costs 20–30% more.
Pro Tip: Use brass fittings for longevity in hard water areas.

10. Electrical Wiring

Uses: Powering lights, outlets, and appliances.
Benefits:

Copper wires offer better conductivity and safety.
PVC conduits protect outdoor wiring from dust and moisture.
Pricing:
Copper wiring: OMR 0.5–1 per meter.
Conduits: OMR 1–3 per meter.
Pro Tip: Hire licensed electricians to ensure compliance with Omani safety codes.

3 Tips for Choosing Building Materials

Balance Budget and Quality: Don’t compromise on structural materials like cement or rebars, even if they cost more.
Climate-Proof Your Choices: Prioritize heat-resistant, non-porous materials for long-term savings.
Consult Experts: Work with contractors or suppliers to avoid costly mistakes.

Why Choose Surbahla for Your Building Materials?

Surbahla is a trusted supplier in Oman, offering:

Wide Range: From concrete blocks to energy-efficient glass.
Climate-Tested Quality: Materials designed for Oman’s heat and humidity.
Expert Guidance: Their team helps you pick the right products for your project.
Competitive Pricing: Affordable options without compromising durability.

Whether you’re building a villa in Muscat or a coastal home in Salalah, Surbahla delivers reliable materials and advice.

Ready to Start Your Project?
Chat with us on WhatsApp for personalized support or visit surbahla.com to explore their catalog.

Build Smart, Live Comfortably!
With the right materials and a trusted partner like Surbahla, your dream home in Oman will be sturdy, efficient, and built to last. Start planning today!

NEWZILO