Not All Rural Houses Are Made of Prefabricated Panels

Not all rural houses are constructed with prefabricated panels.

I. Past Use of Prefabricated Panels in Rural Houses
Before the past 20 years, prefabricated panels were commonly used in rural self-built houses, often serving as roofs or floor slabs. This was primarily due to the relatively limited construction technology at the time, with prefabricated panels becoming a popular choice for rural self-built houses due to their industrial production and ease of installation. For example, some regions quickly built houses using prefabricated panels to meet basic living needs.

II. Disadvantages of Prefabricated Panel Structures
Prefabricated panel structures have numerous drawbacks that limit their long-term application.

1. High Probability of Leakage: Gaps at the joints of prefabricated panels can easily form due to thermal expansion and contraction or foundation settlement, leading to rainwater leakage and affecting living comfort.
2. Low Earthquake Resistance: The connection between prefabricated panels and walls is simple, resulting in poor overall integrity. They are prone to detachment or collapse during earthquakes, posing safety risks.
3. Poor Thermal Insulation: Prefabricated panels are mostly hollow or made of lightweight materials inside, with insufficient thermal insulation properties. This causes rapid loss of indoor temperature in winter and susceptibility to external high temperatures in summer.
4. Inadequate Sound Insulation: The limited thickness of prefabricated panels results in weak sound-blocking capabilities, leading to noticeable noise interference between neighbors or floors.
5. Easy Ground Cracking: Uneven support beneath prefabricated panels or improper foundation treatment can cause cracks in the ground, affecting aesthetics and service life.
6. Relatively Short Lifespan: Prefabricated panels are designed with a lifespan of about 30 years. After long-term use, they are prone to aging and corrosion, requiring frequent repairs or replacement.

III. Current Trends in Rural House Structures
With advancements in construction technology and upgrades in living requirements, the use of prefabricated panels in rural self-built houses has gradually decreased. Cast-in-place concrete roofs have become a better choice due to their strong overall integrity, good earthquake resistance, and long lifespan. Additionally, the implementation of relevant policies from the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and new safety regulations for rural self-built houses has further promoted the renovation or demolition of prefabricated panel houses to enhance housing safety and livability. Therefore, modern rural house structures have diversified, with prefabricated panels no longer being the only or mainstream choice.