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Article information:
To cite this document:
Allan Ashworth, (1996),"Estimating the life expectancies of building components in life-cycle costing calculations", Structural
Survey, Vol. 14 Iss 2 pp. 4 - 8
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/02630809610122730
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Introduction
Allan Ashworth
The author
Allan Ashworth is Head of Division of Surveying, School
of the Built Environment, Nene College of Higher Education, Northampton, UK.
Abstract
Considers how the life expectancies of building components in a life cycle cost calculation can be determined.
Makes comparisons with initial capital cost estimating,
where forecasts or estimates of cost have been carried out
for many years. By definition an estimate is unlikely to be
spot-on. Also recognizes that life expectancy is not just a
mathematical calculation but also requires the use of
expert judgement. Any forecast of a future event, while
utilizing previously recorded performance data will always
be influenced by prevailing conditions and future expectations. The initial quality and standards of the building
project are important characteristics in determining
component life expectancy as is the type of project itself.
Identifies a range of different sources of published information on building component life expectancies. Different
techniques are also discussed that have a potential in
assisting with the prediction of the lives of building
components.
Structural Survey
Volume 14 Number 2 1996 pp. 48
MCB University Press ISSN 2663-080X
Structural Survey
Allan Ashworth
Estimate
Feedback
Implement
Monitor
Structural Survey
Allan Ashworth
Number of replies 66
20
Estimated life in years
Median
Mean
SD
Minimum
Maximum
30
32
22
1
150
15
10
5
0
20
Time in years
40
60
80
100
120
Structural Survey
Allan Ashworth
Life expectancy
(years)
0-10
11-20
21-30
31-40
40+
Painted
(%)
Microporous
painted
(%)
Stained and
varnished
(%)
Totals
(%)
11
24
33
17
15
17
25
28
15
15
15
28
30
10
17
14
25
31
14
16
100
100
100
100
Structural Survey
Allan Ashworth
Conclusions
References
1 Ashworth, A. and Skitmore, R.M., Accuracy in Estimating, Chartered Institute of Building, Occasional Paper
No. 27, 1977.
2 BMI, Occupancy Cost Planning, Building Maintenance
Information Service, 1992.
3 NBA, Maintenance Cycles Life Expectancies, National
Building Agency, 1985.
4 HAPM, Component Life Manual, E. & F.N. Spon,
London, 1992.
5 Property Services Agency, Costs in Use Tables, HMSO,
1991.
6 RICS/BRE, Life Expectancies of Building Components:
Preliminary Results from Survey of Building Surveyors
Views, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
Research Papers, No. 11, 1992.