Effects of exposure to moisture on biodeterioration of facade finishes in the hot-humid tropical environment of Enugu metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigated how exposure to moisture influences the biodeterioration of facade finishes in the hot-humid tropics of Enugu metropolis, Southeast Nigeria. Physical observations and experimental research strategy were used to collect data from 383 buildings in the study area. The data were analysed using descriptive and logistic regression analyses. The results showed that 53.5% were residential buildings and 88.5% had cementitious façade finishes with 66.8% of them having their façade finishes exposed to moisture. Further, 64% of the facade finishes, mainly of cementitious materials and paints were colonized by microorganisms with the most common microbes being fungi. Façade finishes exposed to moisture we found to be four times more likely to experience biodeterioration. The study concludes that in order to curb microbial colonization of façade finishes and the attendant adverse effects, architects should engage in design strategies that can minimize the level of exposure of façade finishes to moisture.