Can Prefabricated Panels Be Used in New House Construction?
New houses can use prefabricated panels, but their numerous drawbacks need to be carefully considered.
The application of prefabricated panels in new house construction has its specific historical background and applicable scenarios. Before 20 years ago, prefabricated panels were widely used in rural self-built houses, mainly due to their advantages of low cost and fast construction speed. The hoisting process can be completed in a day or half a day, which is undoubtedly an attractive option for rural self-built houses that pursue rapid construction and cost control.
However, the drawbacks of prefabricated panels are equally noteworthy. Waterproofing issues are a major weakness of prefabricated panels. Due to the gaps between the panels and the possible presence of tiny pores in the material itself, the probability of rain leakage is relatively high. Even with waterproofing treatment, it cannot guarantee 100% leak-proof, which brings considerable trouble to residents.
Poor seismic performance is another major defect of prefabricated panels. In earthquake-prone areas, houses built with prefabricated panels are prone to collapse due to vibrations, posing a serious threat to the lives of residents. Therefore, the use of prefabricated panels should be avoided in earthquake-prone areas.
Thermal insulation and sound insulation are also shortcomings of prefabricated panels. In summer, houses with prefabricated panel roofs have high indoor temperatures, while in winter, the indoor temperatures are low, requiring additional thermal insulation measures. At the same time, the sound insulation effect of prefabricated panels is poor, and the sounds of activities on the upper floor can be clearly heard, affecting the comfort of living.
In addition, the gaps in the middle of prefabricated panels are prone to cracking and water leakage, and their lifespan is relatively short, only 30 years. This means that after a period of use, the house may require large-scale repairs or replacement, increasing long-term costs.
With the change in policy direction of the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, the advancement of urban village renovation, and the implementation of new safety regulations for rural self-built houses, prefabricated panel houses may face the risk of demolition. Therefore, if financial conditions permit, it is recommended to use cast-in-place concrete for roof construction to improve the safety, durability, and living comfort of the house.
