BUILDING MAINTAINIBILITY: CAUSES OF OBSOLESCENCE AND ITS POSSIBLE SOLUTION IN NIGERIA BUILDINGS

Barivole, Dumtan Innocent

Department of Architecture,

Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Rivers State University,

Npkolu, Oruworukwo Port Harcourt,

Email: dumtan.3@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Obsolescence according to oxford learner dictionary is defined as a state of becoming old fashioned, or no longer useful. Obsolescence has caused so many defaced building to be demolished or when it occurs, the aim of maintenance on building increases in order to enlongate its lifespan and prevents it from being defaced. If the root of obsolescence is being tackled by identifying the causes and proffering the right solution to it, the cost of maintenance will be reduced because the lifecycle of a building will be completed in it physical, economical and functional state. Minimizing obsolescence and extending longevity are therefore indispensable for maintaining the physical, economic and societal investments. The characteristics and symptoms of obsolescence are explored specifically to address how buildings can be diagnosed and when and to what extent is demolition an unavoidable consequence. This study therefore adopts a careful review of the root causes of obsolescence on our Nigerian buildings and how to reduce it occurrences. If the word obsolescence becomes obsolete, the demolition and replacement of building as a result of the structure being out dated or defaced will be a mirage.

Keywords: Obsolescence, Maintenance, Lifecycle, Building, Symptoms