This paper presents results from ongoing research on friction–sliding deformation behavior between planar, solid construction material inclusions and particulates. Data from unlubricated pin on disk friction experiments conducted at high contact stresses using glass beads and subrounded sand in contact with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) polymer sheet, polyvinylchloride polymer sheet and stainless steel are presented. An incremental wear approach is used to model friction–displacement behavior. Predictions of friction coefficients as a function of sliding distance are in good agreement with the experimental data and offer insight into mechanisms potentially responsible for the observed behavior. It is estimated that for the HDPE sheet systems, plowing contributes 40 percent to 60 percent to the peak friction coefficient during initial shear displacement. However the contribution of plowing rapidly decreases to approximately 10 percent to 15 percent as displacement continues. Plowing is only about 8 percent to 10 percent of the total measured resistance after steady state is reached with the balance consisting of adhesion. Particle interaction with wear debris is found to be a significant source of friction with metal surfaces.