An Assessment of Users’ Preferences for Floor Finishes in Residential Buildings in Osogbo, Nigeria

• Author(s): Oluwole Oluwaseun Ajayi ; Olatunji Abdulkabir Yesufu
• Paper ID: 1709836
• Page: 1712-1721
• Published Date: 05-08-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 1 July-2025

Abstract

This study explores user preferences for floor finishes in residential buildings in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. It aims to identify commonly used types of floor finishes, evaluate the key factors influencing users’ choices, examine demographic patterns of preference, and assess the relationship between floor finish selection and functional requirements such as durability, aesthetics, and maintenance. A total of 315 respondents were sampled using a stratified random sampling method across three government residential schemes—Oroki Estate, Oroki Extension, and Osogbo Local Government Scheme. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The most commonly used floor finishes identified were ceramic tiles (53.3%), wooden flooring (18.1%), and concrete (8.6%). Ceramic tiles were dominant in living areas and bedrooms, while concrete and vinyl were more prevalent in utility spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. Factors such as comfort underfoot (mean = 4.14), resistance to wear (mean = 3.93), and aesthetic appeal (mean = 3.88) were rated highest in influencing user preferences. Cost (mean = 3.23) and cultural/traditional values (mean = 2.89) were found to be less influential. Chi-square results showed significant relationships between floor finish preference and several socio-economic variables: monthly income (?² = 49.76***), type of residence (?² = 59.09***), residential status (?² = 112.66***), and duration of stay in Osogbo (?² = 84.92***). In addition, finish type was significantly associated with functional attributes including durability (?² = 66.20***), ease of maintenance (?² = 76.52***), and aesthetic appeal (?² = 55.73***). Correlation analysis further confirmed that residential status (r = 0.346***) and type of residence (r = 0.290***) moderately influenced culturally driven preferences. The results indicate that Osogbo residents prioritize functionality and comfort over cost or cultural tradition in selecting floor finishes. Income level and residential type significantly influence these preferences, with high-income earners tending to prioritize aesthetics and long-term durability. Respondents also demonstrated a rational match between room use and finish type, suggesting increasing awareness of material performance and suitability. While traditional preferences still exist among older and longer-term residents, they are less influential than practical concerns. The study concludes that preferences for floor finishes in Osogbo are strongly guided by comfort, durability, and visual appeal, with socio-economic status and housing context shaping user choices. It recommends that architects and construction professionals provide user-driven solutions that balance function, safety, and aesthetics.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Oluwole Oluwaseun Ajayi , Olatunji Abdulkabir Yesufu "An Assessment of Users’ Preferences for Floor Finishes in Residential Buildings in Osogbo, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 1 2025 Page 1712-1721

IEEE:
Oluwole Oluwaseun Ajayi , Olatunji Abdulkabir Yesufu "An Assessment of Users’ Preferences for Floor Finishes in Residential Buildings in Osogbo, Nigeria" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(1)