A comparative study of the appropriateness of interlocking stabilized soil blocks and clay bricks, as low cost walling materials

Abstract

This study is primarily aimed at comparing ISSBs and clay bricks and tries to establish which of the two walling materials is more appropriate in terms of low cost in the area of study. In establishing this, the researcher relied on both qualitative and quantitative data, which was obtained from field survey through use of questionnaires issued to users, builders and producers of both materials and any available related literature. The provision of permanent decent housing is of prime importance but most of the rural dwellers are not able to achieve this. This study looks into the housing conditions of the local people and tries to identify the major setbacks to better housing in the area. The field study shows that various factors such as lack of funds and lack of adequate skill have contributed to the unavailability of good housing in the area. The study has examined the production processes, performance and limitations of both materials in an attempt to establish their appropriateness. The study revealed that the traditional walling material in the area is clay brick and that the local people are the ones involved in their production and use. However, with the introduction of ISSBs, the people have had to get involved and have learned the skill required in their use. This material has however remained unpopular due to the high cost involved in its production and use. Recommendations have been made on how ISSBs can be made more popular in the area of study through the involvement of the government and NGOs and also promotion of more research into the introduction of cheaper machines. Areas of further study are given at the end of the study including the research into the use of the ISSBs for multi-storey construction by improving their performance.