Factors and defects analysis of physical and environmental condition of buildings

Abstract

Buildings are designed and constructed for a service lifespan of normally 50 years. Several buildings last for decades without any significant defects while many others start developing defects after few years of completing construction, which eventually leads to building deterioration. Physical deterioration of the building reduces its ability to perform its intended function while environmental condition influences the comfort and health of occupants. Numerous studies have been conducted to identify the physical and environmental defects separately that influence the building performance during its life time. The aim of this study is to consolidate and review various defects and factors which affect both building physical and environmental condition. This study examines and analyses the published research work identifying factors and defects which deteriorates building conditions during the past years from 1994–2019. The analysis revealed which factors were more researched in the last 25 years. This study can help building inspection personnel to identify and determine probable cause of building defect. Awareness of factors which influence the building condition negatively among facility managers can be helpful in preventative maintenance which in turn could reduce time and cost required for major repair due to propagation of minor defects into major defects.