Every species of bird has an instinctive pattern of nesting, and, with very few exceptions, will have only one kind of nesting behavior. Habitat is the single most critical factor in whether or not you will be successful in attracting certain bird species. For instance, if your area is not right for chickadees, that is, you live where it is mostly open area, or you have few mature trees on your property, it is highly unlikely that you will attract nesting chickadees even if you put up the perfect chickadee nestbox. You may want to wait to put up a nestbox until the vegetation matures in your area.
Wood is the best material for nestboxes.
Pine, cedar, and redwood are commonly used. Wood is a good insulator and doesn't overheat in hot weather like metal or plastic. For the same reasons, concrete houses are popular in Europe. The roof should overhang slightly to channel off rain. Drainage holes in the bottom of the box will allow moisture to escape.