Transformation of Prefabricated Slab Houses to Light Steel Structures

The transformation of prefabricated slab houses into light steel structures requires the following steps and precautions:

1. Removal of Existing Walls Before renovation, assess the structural safety of the house. On the premise of ensuring that the load-bearing system of the prefabricated slabs is not damaged, remove non-load-bearing walls as much as possible. This step aims to create space for the construction of the light steel structure while retaining key load-bearing components (such as load-bearing walls and columns) to maintain overall stability. Professional tools should be used during the removal process to avoid structural damage caused by violent construction.

2. Foundation Reinforcement The foundations of prefabricated slab houses are usually relatively weak and require targeted reinforcement. Common methods include:

• Concrete Reinforcement: Increase the foundation area or add reinforcement by pouring concrete to enhance the load-bearing capacity.
• Material Reinforcement: Use high-strength bricks (such as Geili bricks) or anchor bolts to fix steel columns, strengthening the connection between the foundation and the light steel structure. The reinforcement plan should be comprehensively determined based on the geological conditions of the house, the original foundation type, and the load requirements after renovation. It is recommended to entrust a structural engineer to carry out a special design.

3. Erection of Light Steel Components The core components of a light steel structure include steel columns, steel beams, and a support system. The key points of construction are as follows:

• Steel Column Installation: The column base should be firmly welded to the ground. The welding quality should comply with the "Standard for Acceptance of Construction Quality of Steel Structures" (GB50205), and the welds should undergo non-destructive testing.
• Steel Beam Hoisting: Use special lifting equipment (such as a chain hoist) to slowly hoist the beams, avoiding collisions with other components. After the beams are in place, they should be fixed with high-strength bolts or welding.
• Support System: Horizontal and vertical supports should be installed simultaneously to ensure the spatial stability of the structure. Support nodes should be connected with bolts or reinforced by welding.

4. Construction Specifications and Safety Management

• Professional Construction: The renovation should be carried out by a team with steel structure construction qualifications. Unlicensed construction is strictly prohibited.
• Safety Protection: Set up warning signs at the construction site. Workers at heights should wear safety harnesses, and a warning area should be designated during the hoisting of steel components.
• Environmental Protection Measures: Control dust and noise pollution. Construction waste should be sorted and transported away to avoid affecting surrounding residents.

5. References for Other Renovation Methods

• Adding a Light Steel Villa: If a light steel villa is to be added on top of the original prefabricated slab house, make full use of its characteristics of light weight and good seismic performance. However, it is necessary to recheck the load-bearing capacity of the original structure and add a transfer layer or strengthen the connection nodes if necessary.
• Ceiling Material Selection: When using light steel keels for the ceiling, it is recommended to use stainless steel 304 for the installation accessories to prevent rust. If noise reduction is required, wooden keels can be partially used as an alternative, but fire protection measures should be taken.