Prefabricated Panel Structure of Houses

The prefabricated panel structure of houses is a form of housing constructed primarily using prefabricated panels, which have specific characteristics, historical backgrounds, and current situations.

Structural Characteristics

Prefabricated panels are cement components manufactured in factories. During production, wooden models are first nailed together, followed by the placement of steel bars and the pouring of cement to form the panels, which come in solid and hollow types. The hollow structure achieves lightweighting by reducing the concrete in non-load-bearing parts. Houses with this structure have low strength and are not as solid as cast-in-place concrete buildings; instead, they are pieced together from individual prefabricated panels, inherently lacking in robustness and toughness. Most prefabricated panels adopt a hollow design, with the quantity and distribution of steel bars inside being less scientifically and reasonably arranged than in cast-in-place houses.

Historical Background

It originated in the early 20th century. In China, residential buildings constructed before 1985 often adopted this type of structure.

Existing Problems

• Weak Earthquake Resistance: They cannot withstand the impact of earthquakes at all; even slight vibrations can loosen the joints between floor panels.
• Poor Sound Insulation and Thermal Insulation: They have poor thermal insulation performance, being hot in summer and cold in winter. In extreme weather, the walls seem as flimsy as paper.
• Limited Service Life: Their service life is approximately 30-50 years. Over time, problems such as wall cracks and ceiling water leakage will occur. The originally somewhat sturdy structure becomes precarious, and many older prefabricated panel houses have been identified as "dangerous buildings."

Current Situation

With the development of construction technology, cast-in-place concrete and prefabricated buildings are gradually replacing traditional prefabricated panel houses. Since 2022, China has implemented a policy of renovating old residential areas, focusing on repairing and renovating prefabricated panel houses and only demolishing buildings that meet the criteria for dangerous structures. Some regions have already initiated demolition work. This policy takes into account the actual situation of prefabricated panel houses, reflects the importance attached to residents' living safety, and also conforms to the trend of construction technology development.