ABSTRACT
The study paves the way for the recognition and introduction of using indigenous material as an alternative solution in the production of low cost housing to lower construction cost and housing backlogs.
The study attempts to discover the utilization and end-user’s acceptability of SOIL BLOCKS (SB). It aims to introduce and evaluate the performance of SB as wall panel in the construction of low cost housing specifically in areas of production, utilization, construction and end-user’s perception on the acceptability of the product.
The SB technology in the Philippines in its present position in the world is still way behind in terms of skillful use of scientific and technological techniques, equipment and processes. SB’s limited exposure can be traced to factor such as the very limited producers of SB; the lack of promotion and marketing strategy among producers; the lack of awareness of the technology among mass housing developers; the non-availability of equipment; and the quality of the soil itself. In terms of its potential application, the utilization of SB over CHB reduces the cost of housing construction by 10 to 20% of the total material cost. Thus, this will increase acquisition of housing unit using SB as wall panels. For the past eight years, the Compressed Earth Blocks (CEB) has been introduced and found out to be underutilized in spite of its reduced construction cost acceptable workmanship. Due to high demands and backlogs in mass housing, the study aims to improve the current CEB to wall panel and that will pave another breakthrough in the construction and technology. In view to the above observation, research and development related to technology that will focus on the use of indigenous materials and improvement or modification of the product to suit local conditions should be done both non-government organization and the government. To upgrade the quality so that it can compete with both conventional and new technologies coming from abroad, there is a need to establish standards and norms for CEB. Considering compressive strength, CEB can be explored to significantly reduce the cost of house construction. To gain its market share and make significant contribution to the housing industry, both CEB and SB should be linked to the government’s National Shelter Program. Finally, manpower training and adopting a good approach to the design and execution oft her earth structure are hereby recommended. In view of the rising costs of construction and the need to contribute to the solution of the ever growing housing backlog problem, the study paves the way for the recognition and acceptance of using indigenous building materials for low cost housing construction. It proposes alternative solutions in the production of low coast housing to solve the current backlogs. It its entirety, the research study addresses the concern of the pore and marginalized sector of society to have access to affordable shelter.
The results of this study are expected to benefit also the following:
Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC). As the government coordinating agency in housing, it should provide insights in helping to re-evaluate existing policies and programs on the promotion and accreditations of indigenous building materials for low cost housing. Government Financial Institutions. To provide insights on the potential of funding developmental loans for projects in mass housing productions utilizing both CEB and SB. Specific areas of concern by this institution are the collateral value and economic life span of the housing units.
Housing Insurance Guarantee Corporation. The actual performance of SB will provide the corporation the capability to determine the extent of guaranty on housing units using SB and taken-out by any financial institution.
CEB/SB Producers. To determine feedback particularly on the weak point of SB when use for external wall panel in order to improve the system of production.
House Builders. The study will provide the information for devising the measures to improve the method of construction utilizing SB as well as maintaining durability of the housing units.
Researchers. The results of this study could provide new knowledge and at the same time encourage other researchers to conduct similar studies on the utilization of indigenous materials to reduce the cost of housing.
METHODOLOGY
SBs are formed by compressing slightly moistened earth in a manually or mechanically operated steel press. SBs are solid rectangular shape with an average weight of 6m kilogram and an average compressive strength of 1,100 psi.
Procedures in the production
Extraction
Preparation
Drying
Pulverizing
Screening
Mixing
Measuring out of drying materials
Drying Mixing
Wet Mixing
Compression
Removing from mold
Wet Curing
Drying
Stocking
