Investigation into Timber Section Suitability for Building Construction in Kaduna Metropolis
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Investigation into Timber Section Suitability for Building Construction in Kaduna Metropolis
Abstract
This study assesses the quality, availability, and suitability of timber sections used for building construction within Kaduna Metropolis. Timber remains a widely used construction material in Nigeria due to its affordability, workability, and local availability. However, concerns persist regarding the structural performance, durability, and standardization of timber products sold in urban markets. The research evaluates common timber species and sectional sizes used in residential and commercial buildings, with emphasis on strength properties, moisture content, defects, and compliance with recommended building standards.
A mixed-methods approach was adopted, involving field surveys of timber markets, physical inspection and measurement of timber sections, laboratory testing of selected samples, and interviews with builders, timber merchants, and construction professionals. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Findings reveal significant variations in timber quality, frequent use of undersized and improperly seasoned sections, and limited awareness of standard specifications among stakeholders. These factors contribute to structural weaknesses and reduced service life of buildings.
The study concludes that improved regulation, standardization, and professional oversight are essential for enhancing the reliability of timber in construction within Kaduna Metropolis. It recommends the enforcement of timber grading systems, training for artisans and suppliers, and increased collaboration between regulatory agencies and professional bodies to ensure safer and more sustainable building practices.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Timber has remained one of the oldest and most versatile construction materials used by humans due to its availability, workability, and favorable strength-to-weight ratio. In many developing countries, including Nigeria, timber continues to play a vital role in residential and commercial building construction, particularly for roof trusses, doors, windows, floor joists, and formwork (Afolayan & Ogunwusi, 2019). The performance of timber in construction is largely dependent on its sectional dimensions, species, moisture content, and treatment, all of which influence its structural integrity and durability.
Kaduna Metropolis, as one of the major urban centers in Northern Nigeria, has experienced rapid population growth and urban expansion over the past two decades. This growth has intensified the demand for affordable and accessible building materials, especially timber products sourced from nearby forests and timber markets such as Kawo, Mando, and Sabo (NPC, 2023). However, the quality of timber sections used in construction varies widely due to differences in harvesting methods, processing techniques, and lack of strict regulatory enforcement.
Previous studies indicate that improper timber sizing and use of substandard sections can lead to structural failures, reduced service life of buildings, and increased maintenance costs (Ogunwusi, 2014; EN 338, 2016). In many Nigerian cities, timber is often used without adequate grading or compliance with standard codes, thereby exposing buildings to risks such as excessive deflection, termite attack, and moisture-induced decay (Akinyemi, 2020).
Within Kaduna Metropolis, timber sections are widely used for roofing members, ceiling supports, scaffolding, and formwork. Yet, there is limited empirical documentation on whether the timber sections commonly used conform to recommended standards in terms of size, species, and mechanical properties. This study, therefore, seeks to assess the timber sections used for building construction within Kaduna Metropolis, with emphasis on availability, quality, dimensional accuracy, and suitability for structural applications.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the widespread use of timber in building construction in Kaduna Metropolis, there is growing concern about the structural reliability and durability of timber members used in residential and commercial buildings. Reports of roof failures, sagging beams, and premature deterioration of timber components have been linked to the use of undersized, poorly seasoned, and untreated timber sections (Ogunwusi & Olawumi, 2018).
Many timber sellers and contractors rely on visual judgment rather than standardized grading systems when selecting timber for construction. This practice often results in the use of timber sections that do not meet minimum dimensional or strength requirements as prescribed in building codes (BS 5268, 2010; EN 1995-1-1, 2014). In Kaduna, where climatic conditions include high temperature variations and seasonal rainfall, timber is particularly susceptible to moisture movement and biological attack if not properly treated (Akinyemi, 2020).
Furthermore, the lack of consistent regulation and quality control in timber markets means that builders and homeowners may unknowingly use substandard timber sections, which compromises structural safety and long-term performance of buildings. The problem is therefore the absence of adequate empirical data on the characteristics and compliance level of timber sections used in Kaduna Metropolis, which hinders informed decision-making by builders, engineers, and policymakers.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study
Aim:
The main aim of this study is to assess the timber sections used for building construction within Kaduna Metropolis.
Objectives:
The specific objectives are to:
Identify the common timber species and section sizes used in building construction in Kaduna Metropolis.
Examine the dimensional accuracy of timber sections sold in selected timber markets.
Assess the level of seasoning and treatment of timber used for construction purposes.
Evaluate the suitability of commonly used timber sections for structural applications.
Determine challenges affecting the quality and standardization of timber sections in the study area.
1.4 Research Questions
What timber species and section sizes are commonly used for building construction in Kaduna Metropolis?
Do timber sections used in Kaduna conform to recommended dimensional standards?
To what extent are timber sections properly seasoned and treated before use?
Are the timber sections suitable for structural applications in buildings?
What factors affect the quality of timber sections used in Kaduna Metropolis?
1.5 Significance of the Study
This study will be significant to several stakeholders. Builders and contractors will benefit from improved awareness of appropriate timber section sizes and quality requirements for safe construction. Structural engineers and architects will gain empirical data to guide material specifications. Policymakers and regulatory agencies will find the results useful in strengthening quality control measures in timber markets and enforcing building standards.
Academically, the study will contribute to the body of knowledge on construction materials in Nigeria and serve as a reference for future research on timber utilization and sustainability. It will also provide baseline data for improving timber processing and marketing practices within Kaduna Metropolis.
1.6 Scope of the Study
The study focuses on timber sections used for building construction within Kaduna Metropolis, Kaduna State. It covers selected timber markets and construction sites within the metropolis. The assessment is limited to timber species identification, sectional dimensions, seasoning condition, and treatment practices. Other building materials such as steel and concrete are outside the scope of this study.
1.7 Operational Definition of Terms
Timber Sections: The cross-sectional sizes and shapes of sawn wood members used in construction.
Seasoning: The process of reducing moisture content in timber to improve strength and durability.
Treatment: The application of chemical preservatives to protect timber from insects, fungi, and decay.
Kaduna Metropolis: The major urban area comprising Kaduna North, Kaduna South, and parts of Chikun and Igabi Local Government Areas.
Structural Applications: Uses of timber where it carries load, such as beams, rafters, joists, and columns.
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