Characterization of pathologies in housing structures. A case study in the city of Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas, Mexico. (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Trujillo, Víctor Manuel Sánchez; Herrera, Raúl González; Nolasco, Gabriel Castañeda; Lara, Carlos Manuel García; Carboney, Jorge Alfredo Aguilar
• Is Part Of: Journal of building engineering. Volume 22(2019)
• Page Start: 539
• Page End: 548
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: Characterization -- Constructive pathologies -- Structural evaluation -- Constructive typologies -- Self-build -- Social housing; Building -- Periodicals; 690.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2019.01.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-7102

Abstract

Abstract: We characterize construction pathologies and associated meteorological or seismic vulnerabilities in self-built housing and formally-constructed housing (i.e., that erected by licensed contractors who supposedly comply with legal requirements) in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the capital city of Chiapas state, in southeast Mexico. We note changes that have occurred over time, in both types of housing, as a result of new materials, construction methods, and architectural layouts, as well as through modifications to original constructions. The widespread deficiencies that we found, in both types of housing, reflect Tuxtla Gutiérrez' lack of urban planning and its haphazard enforcement of existing building codes. Owners, especially those with low incomes accept the resulting high degree of vulnerability out of ignorance or lack of resources. Highlights: The green roofs a myth for the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez. The housing suffers a great deficit in the constructive processes. Self-build is an endemic process in housing. Progressive construction seen as a factor of vulnerability.