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Free worksheet · Materials

Material Selection Worksheet

Published

Materials are easy to choose on looks alone and regret later. This worksheet compares options the way that actually matters — by room, intended use, moisture, maintenance, installation complexity and how they sit with the materials around them.

It is an educational planning aid. Confirm real-world performance with manufacturers and suitability with professionals before committing.

How to use this resource

  • Print one sheet per room or per decision (Cmd/Ctrl + P) so you can line up options.
  • Use it before specifying materials or visiting suppliers, to keep comparisons consistent.
  • Confirm performance and suitability with manufacturers and professionals — the worksheet frames the questions, not the answers.
  • Treat it as a planning aid, not a guarantee of any material's performance.

Room / area

Room or surface

Material option being considered

Intended use

Traffic, wear, contact and how the surface is really used.

Moisture exposure

  • Dry area
  • Occasional splashes
  • Wet area / frequent water
  • Outdoor / weather exposed

Maintenance

What keeping it looking good actually involves.

Installation complexity

DIY-friendly, specialist, or professional-only.

Compatibility

How it works with adjacent surfaces, substrate and fixings.

Questions for professionals

Decision notes

Frequently asked questions

Questions about this resource

Will this tell me which material is best?

No — there is rarely a universal best. The worksheet helps you weigh each option against your room's real conditions, then confirm suitability with a supplier or professional.

Does it include lifespans or prices?

No. Performance, lifespan and cost vary by product, installation and use, so we leave those to manufacturer guidance and local quotes.

Can I use it for one room only?

Yes. Print a sheet per room or per decision — it is designed to compare a handful of options side by side.

Keep planning

Related guides, tools and resources

Free planning resources →The hub for all free templates and planning resources.Materials guides →Educational overviews of material families.How to compare building materials →The framework this worksheet puts into practice.Material comparison checklist (tool) →Questions and trade-offs to weigh before specifying.What questions to ask before buying building materials (Q&A) →Short Q&A on buying materials.Material suppliers →How to prepare for a supplier conversation.Kitchen and bathroom materials →Material planning for wet and high-use rooms.