An Investigation Into The Use Of Concrete Block Construction In Low Cost Housing In The Western Cape

ABSTRACT

South Africa is possibly facing the biggest housing backlog in its history, and the backlog is

growing annually. The ability and means to deliver must be improved, together with a

compromise between the construction materials used and the occupants' preferences.

This study seeks to examine the use of concrete block construction for the wall superstructure of

low cost housing in terms of affordability and acceptability by the end-users.

Three objectives of this research study, which are fundamental to the research, are identified,

and these are reviewed. The first is the investigation of trends in the use of construction materials

in the superstructure of low cost housing through a literature review. The second is the

establishment of the current methods and materials that are being used for low cost housing

construction in the Western Cape by means of a questionnaire survey. The final objective is to

establish the end-user's satisfaction levels with regard to the use of concrete block construction

by means of a questionnaire survey.

The data collected indicated respondents' perceptions and opinions, and was analysed using

qualitative methodologies.

The primary conclusion to be drawn is that concrete block construction for low cost housing is the

most affordable option because of its ease of construction, good quality and low construction

costs due to the use of less material compared to conventional bricks. However, although the

end-users are satisfied with concrete block houses because of their permanent status, they feel

that the problems that do arise are due to poor workmanship and bad site supervision.