Assessment of the Use of Compressed Stabilized Interlocking Earth Block for Building Construction in Nigeria

Abstract

With the increasing pace of technology and the ever growing client’s desire for comfort and optimum value for money, the need to diversify and try other materials and methods of building construction that will yield the expected result is necessary. One of such materials is the Compressed Stabilized Interlocking Earth Block (CSIEB) which is gaining popularity among construction professionals in most developing countries. This research therefore assessed its usage for building construction in Nigeria, using a questionnaire survey administered to construction professionals which includes; Architect, Quantity Surveyors, Engineers and Builders. Data gathered were analyzed using percentage, mean item score and correlation analysis. Findings revealed that CSIEB is gaining popularity among construction professionals and the present level of usage is encouraging. Correlation analysis showed that there is a strong relationship between its suitability and respondents’ willingness to adopt it for building construction. Findings further revealed that CSIEB is suitable for building construction and most professionals are willing to use it for subsequent projects. Its perceived benefits include; cost effective construction, aesthetically pleasing finish and reduction in cost of maintenance.  The study therefore recommends that the use of CSIEB should be encouraged among stakeholders as an alternative to the conventional materials use for building construction in Nigeria.

Keywords: Building construction, Compressed Stabilized Interlocking Earth Block, Construction professionals, Nigeria, Suitability.