Journal of Physical Science and Environmental Studies

Research Paper|Published July, 2026|Vol. 12(4):41-48.

https://doi.org/10.36630/jpses_26015

 

Assessment of Building Finishing, Maintenance Practices and Building Performance in Aba, Nigeria

 

Madukwe Richard Emeka

 

Department of Building, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.

 

ABSTRACT

This study assessed building finishing, maintenance practices, and building performance in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design involving 134 building owners, contractors, and maintenance personnel selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis with the aid of SPSS Version 27. The findings revealed that wall cracks, roof leakages, faulty plumbing fixtures, electrical faults, and poor ventilation were the most common defects affecting buildings in the study area, indicating deterioration in the condition of building finishes. Maintenance practices were generally perceived to be moderately effective, although corrective maintenance was more frequently adopted than preventive maintenance. The regression analysis further revealed that both maintenance practices (β = 0.401, p < 0.001) and building finishing (β = 0.305, p = 0.001) had significant positive effects on building performance. The model explained 60.1% of the variation in building performance (R² = 0.601; F = 37.123; p < 0.001), indicating that improvements in building finishing and maintenance practices contribute significantly to enhanced building performance. The study concludes that adopting preventive maintenance strategies, using quality finishing materials, and strengthening maintenance management practices are essential for improving the durability, functionality, and sustainability of buildings in Aba. The study recommends that property owners, facility managers, and government regulatory agencies prioritize preventive maintenance programmes, enforce building maintenance standards, and promote the use of durable finishing materials to enhance building performance and ensure sustainable urban development.

Key Words: Building finishing, building maintenance, building repairs, building construction, finishing quality, building defects.

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