Impact of Capillarity-Induced Rising Damp on the Energy Performance of Residential Buildings in Makurdi, Benue State
Moisture movement through building envelopes, particularly rising damp caused by capillarity, has long been recognized as a major factor influencing material durability, indoor comfort, and overall building performance. In humid tropical settings such as Makurdi Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, this phenomenon is especially pronounced due to high groundwater levels, seasonal rainfall, and prevalent construction practices that often lack effective damp-proofing measures. This research investigates the relationship between capillarity-induced moisture in wall assemblies and the energy performance of residential buildings within Makurdi LGA. Employing a field-based methodology, the study combines in-situ measurements of wall moisture content, indoor thermal and humidity profiles, and cooling energy use with a survey of construction details, occupancy patterns, and maintenance histories. A comparative analysis between buildings with evident rising damp and those with minimal or no damp manifestations will be conducted to establish correlations between wall moisture indices and cooling energy demand. The study further explores how increased wall moisture alters the thermal conductivity of sandcrete block walls, thereby affecting envelope performance and thermal comfort. Anticipated outcomes include empirical evidence linking capillarity to elevated cooling loads and reduced energy efficiency in dwellings, as well as a typology of construction details most vulnerable to moisture ingress. By situating capillarity not only as a durability challenge but also as an energy performance determinant, the research contributes to a broader understanding of building pathology in tropical climates. Ultimately, the study aims to inform architectural design practice, material specification, and policy interventions that promote healthier, more resilient, and energy-efficient housing in Makurdi and similar urban settings.
