Integrated Prefabricated Roof

An integrated prefabricated roof is a roofing form constructed primarily using prefabricated panels. It was once widely used in rural self-built houses but has deficiencies in waterproofing, earthquake resistance, and thermal insulation. Currently, it is gradually being replaced by superior structures such as cast-in-place concrete roofs.

Structural and Material Characteristics

An integrated prefabricated roof mainly uses prefabricated panels as roofing materials. Prefabricated panels are cement components manufactured in factories and come in two types: solid and hollow. In the past, they were often chosen for rural self-built houses due to their low cost and fast construction speed. The thickness of prefabricated panels is generally around 12 centimeters, and this structural characteristic determines their limitations in performance.

Existing Drawbacks

• Waterproofing Issues: When waterproofing is applied to a prefabricated panel roof, there is a relatively high probability of leakage, making it difficult to guarantee 100% waterproofing. This is because gaps easily form at the joints between prefabricated panels. Even if waterproofing treatment is carried out, the waterproof layer is prone to damage during long-term use due to factors such as wind and rain erosion and temperature changes, leading to leakage.
• Poor Earthquake Resistance: Prefabricated panels have a relatively low earthquake resistance coefficient and are not suitable for use in earthquake-prone areas. During an earthquake, the connections between prefabricated panels are relatively weak, making them prone to breakage and displacement, which can result in the collapse of the house and pose a serious threat to life and property safety.
• Poor Thermal Insulation: Due to the limited thickness of prefabricated panels, their thermal insulation performance is poor. In summer, external high temperatures easily transfer into the house, raising the indoor temperature; in winter, indoor heat easily dissipates, lowering the indoor temperature and affecting living comfort.

Replacement Trends

Currently, rural house construction tends to favor cast-in-place concrete roofs. This integrated structure is sturdier, has good load-bearing capacity, and provides a certain degree of thermal insulation. Although cast-in-place roofs may also experience leakage, it is usually caused by inadequate formwork construction, cement grade, or curing work, and leakage is relatively easy to handle afterward. In addition, with the development of construction technology, cast-in-place concrete and prefabricated buildings are gradually replacing traditional prefabricated panel houses, bringing safer, more comfortable, and more efficient solutions to the construction field.