Prefabricated Panel Structure Houses

Prefabricated panel structure houses are a type of 'industrial housing' that emerged to meet the demand for rapid construction. Nowadays, some of them need to be demolished and renovated, while others can be upgraded in an orderly manner.

Construction Advantages

The main structural components of prefabricated panel houses, such as wall panels, floor slabs, beams, and columns, are prefabricated in factories and then transported to the site for assembly. This construction method significantly shortens the construction period, accelerates urban development, and offers moderate costs, making it particularly suitable for scenarios requiring urgent construction schedules. In the past, it took two to three years to build an old-style brick-and-mortar house, whereas a prefabricated panel house can be completed in just a few months. During the 1970s and 1980s, to alleviate urban housing shortages, a large number of prefabricated panel houses were built, providing housing solutions for some workers and residents.

Structural Disadvantages

• Weak Overall Strength and Earthquake Resistance: Assembled from individual prefabricated panels, these houses lack the overall solidity and toughness of cast-in-place concrete buildings. The prefabricated panels often feature hollow designs, with less scientific and reasonable distribution of steel bars compared to cast-in-place houses. Even slight vibrations can loosen the joints between floor slabs, making them vulnerable to seismic impacts.
• Short Service Life: Generally designed with a lifespan of about 40 years, many prefabricated panel houses have already exceeded their 'service period'. Over time, issues such as wall cracks and ceiling leaks may arise, causing the originally sturdy structure to become precarious. Many older prefabricated panel houses have been identified as 'dangerous buildings'.
• Wall Cracks and Susceptibility to Leaks: Walls are prone to cracking, and ceilings may leak, with the situation being more severe on the top floors. During rainy days, water may drip into the house, continuing even after the rain stops.
• Poor Thermal Insulation and Sound Insulation: These houses have poor thermal insulation performance, being hot in summer and cold in winter. Their overall durability is also subpar, and their sound insulation is ineffective.

Demolition and Renovation Policies

Nowadays, old prefabricated panel houses have gradually become 'time bombs' with safety hazards. The authorities have clearly stated that some prefabricated panel houses need to be demolished, renovated, and updated. The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development has indicated that certain prefabricated panel houses 'must be demolished' and that no new prefabricated panel houses will be constructed. For 'overdue' and 'hazardous' prefabricated houses, demolition will be carried out decisively. For those without obvious safety hazards, 'orderly renovation and upgrading' will be ensured, such as replacing old water and electricity systems, repairing leaks, refreshing exterior walls, and even installing elevators and improving the environment to gradually enhance quality. Houses prioritized for demolition mainly fall into two categories: those identified as dangerous buildings and those that must make way for urban planning.