Dampness in residential Buildings in Nigeria: A critical assessment of sub-urban areas

Abstract

Severe dampness in residential buildings in sub-urban areas has become a major problem to many owners and users alike. this scenario leads to deterioration in building to the extent that it ultimately undermines the structural elements. Soil profile, Silt content and pH value in conjunction with Site survey and Questionnaire were used to evaluate the causes and effects of dampness in Bosso and Kpakungu areas of Chanchaga local government area in Niger State of Nigeria. Sandy-clay soil type was dominant in the area with impervious base ranges from 4 to 9 meters deep, the silt content of sharp and plaster sands used for construction in the area were 6.8% and 10.2% respectively while the pH values for well water is 6.8 and 7.1 for stream water with traces of CaSo4 and CaCl2. Total disregard to standards and methods in construction processes as well as lack of proper maintenance are the major causes of dampness. It is recommended that through proper education and engagement of qualified professionals, wet free residential buildings can be achieved.