ROOFING ECONOMICS: ANALYSING THE IMPACT OF DESIGN AND MATERIALS ON CONSTRUCTION COSTS

Abstract

This study provides a cost assessment of various roof designs, taking into account the current price of wood in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The analysis specifically examines the costs related to building Hip, Flat, Gable 1, and Gable 2 roofs, with a particular emphasis on the crucial role of wood in forming the trusses. The cost breakdown highlights different financial considerations for each type of roof, with Gable 2 being the most expensive, followed by Gable 1, Hip, and Flat roofs. The costs presented do not include labour costs and the selection of roof sheet materials, which are essential elements of construction projects. A closer look of the expenses associated with various roof types, particularly the most expensive option (Gable 2), demonstrates significant potential for reducing costs in construction projects. Flat roofs are a cost-effective option, costing only 47.69% of the price of Gable 2 roofs. This makes them appealing for projects with limited budgets. Hip roofs, in the meantime, achieve a harmonious combination of cost-effectiveness and architectural attractiveness, resulting in a significant cost reduction of 89.39% when compared to Gable 2 roofs. In contrast, Gable 1 roofs offer minimal cost savings, accounting for only 97.06% of the cost of Gable 2 roofs. The slight disparity implies that choices may be swayed by factors other than just cost considerations, underscoring the significance of a thorough assessment of climate, architectural preferences, and long-term maintenance expenses in construction endeavours.