How to Replace Prefabricated Panels in a House

Replacing prefabricated panels in a house requires choosing between cast-in-place replacement or new prefabricated panel replacement based on the goal, and strictly following professional construction procedures. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Remove the original prefabricated panels and clear the floor

Whether choosing cast-in-place or replacing with new prefabricated panels, the original prefabricated panels must be removed first. If using cast-in-place technology, the floor must be completely cleared down to the structural layer; if replacing with new prefabricated panels, the old panels must also be removed, but attention must be paid to structural safety risks. This process must be carried out by a professional construction team to avoid wall or floor collapse due to improper removal.

2. Install support structures

• Cast-in-place replacement: Floor formwork must be installed as support for the cast-in-place concrete. The formwork must have a flat surface to ensure the quality of subsequent finishing processes. Formwork installation must comply with building codes to avoid deformation or leakage.
• Prefabricated panel replacement: If replacing hollow prefabricated panels without removing walls, a professional agency must first be commissioned to inspect the wall properties and original floor structure to confirm whether the condition of not removing walls is met. After passing the inspection, the construction team will develop a support plan to ensure wall stability during construction.

3. Install rebar or select compatible prefabricated panels

• Cast-in-place replacement: Rebar must be installed on the floor, and all rebar must be inserted and welded to the walls and columns to form an integrated load-bearing structure, ensuring floor safety. Rebar specifications and spacing must meet design requirements.
• Prefabricated panel replacement: Select hollow prefabricated panels with dimensions and loads matching the original floor based on the inspection results. The new panels must be custom-made to the original dimensions to ensure structural stability. The construction team must develop a detailed installation plan, specifying the steps for removing old panels and fixing new panels to avoid damaging the walls.

4. Pour or install and secure

• Cast-in-place replacement: After pouring the concrete, it must be allowed to dry naturally without disturbance. After drying, remove the formwork and check the floor for flatness and strength.
• Prefabricated panel replacement: The new panels must be fixed using professional equipment to ensure a secure connection with the walls. Support and protective measures must be taken during installation to prevent collapse.

5. Follow-up work

• After replacing prefabricated panels: The overall structure of an old house may be damaged, requiring regular maintenance and inspections to ensure safety. If the house is very old, it is recommended to undergo overall renovation or reconstruction to improve living comfort.
• After replacement without removing walls: Supervise safety measures throughout the construction process, use appropriate lifting equipment, and commission an inspection agency for acceptance after construction to confirm structural safety before putting it into use.