What do you call materials that are not commonly available and might require special handling?

Specialty materials refer to specific types of building materials that are not widely available and often require special handling due to their unique properties or characteristics. These materials can include high-performance products, rare finishes, or those that need particular installation techniques. Their specialized nature often means that they may come with additional costs or specific sourcing requirements, setting them apart from standard building materials that are readily available and can be easily procured.

In contrast, commodities are common materials that are frequently used in construction and are generally available from multiple suppliers. Standard materials are those that conform to widely accepted norms, making them easy to find and utilize in most projects. Assembly components pertain to parts that are put together to form larger systems, focusing primarily on the construct rather than the uniqueness or scarcity of the materials involved. Thus, specialty materials stand out due to their uncommon nature and need for careful consideration in both selection and handling.