Analysis of living conditions in low-income housing built with guadua cane, case study of the La Pile commune, Montecristi, Manabí

Abstract

The construction of homes with guadua cane has been promoted as a sustainable option in low-income housing projects, especially in rural areas such as La Pile, Montecristi, Manabí, Ecuador. The purpose of this research was to analyze the impact of guadua cane use on the living conditions of low-income housing in the commune of La Pile, Montecristi, Manabí, Ecuador, by evaluating its influence on the quality of life of residents and identifying their perceptions of the comfort, safety, and functionality of their homes. A cross-sectional, descriptive, qualitative design was used, with a perception questionnaire administered to 88 residents of the 28 homes. The results showed that the majority of respondents were satisfied with their homes, highlighting positive aspects such as thermal comfort, natural ventilation, and the aesthetics of the material. However, their reports also identified problems such as leaks, cracks, and pending maintenance. Guadúa cane is considered a potential alternative for the construction of affordable housing, provided it receives the appropriate technical treatment and user experiences are taken into account. The study concludes that it provides input for developing more humane and ecological housing policies, always ensuring the well-being of the population.