Exterior Decoration of Prefabricated Panel Houses

The exterior decoration of prefabricated panel houses can employ concrete decorative panels (colored concrete cladding) technology, which combines both enclosure and decorative functions, eliminating the need for secondary finishing after on-site assembly.

I. Technical Principles and Process Types

Colored concrete cladding technology falls under the category of prefabricated concrete exterior wall finishing processes, where panels are processed using either the "positive" or "reverse" casting method. Positive casting involves directly pouring concrete into a mold to form the decorative layer, resulting in a high level of surface flatness. Reverse casting, on the other hand, involves pre-laying decorative materials (such as colored terrazzo or artistic terrazzo) at the bottom of the mold before pouring concrete, creating a textured surface. This technology suspends the cladding panels on the reinforced concrete structural layer using stainless steel hangers, while also incorporating insulation and air layers to enhance building energy efficiency.

II. Curtain Wall Classification and Structural Characteristics

1. Frameless Curtain Wall: Suitable for heavy curtain walls up to one or two stories high, these are directly connected to the main structure via hangers without the need for additional steel framework support, making them ideal for large-span exterior wall decorations.
2. Framework-Type Curtain Wall: Utilizes thin, lightweight concrete panels (1 meter wide) fixed to a steel framework using channel steel bolts. These curtain walls are lightweight and flexible to install, suitable for high-rise buildings or complex design requirements.

III. International Technical Specifications and Material Requirements

• German Specifications: Require uniform color of the cladding panels, with bubble diameters not exceeding 4mm and evenly distributed aggregates to ensure decorative quality.
• Sekisui House (Japan): Uses 57mm-thick lightweight concrete panels with built-in galvanized steel reinforcement mesh to enhance structural strength, and pre-embedded channel steel connectors to simplify the installation process.
• Material Proportions: A mixture of cement, fine and coarse sand, pigments, etc., is used in specific proportions to ensure high-strength panels that do not deform when exposed to water, meeting long-term weather resistance requirements.

IV. Manufacturing Process and Installation Methods

1. Manufacturing Process: Includes pre-treatment of wood grain molds (to create surface textures), fabrication of steel reinforcement cages (to enhance structural stability), and pouring of colored concrete (to control color and aggregate distribution).
2. Installation Methods: In addition to stainless steel hangers, small clips and other connectors can also be used for fixation, adapting to different structural needs. During installation, it is essential to ensure the airtightness of the insulation and air layers to prevent thermal bridging effects.

This technology achieves efficiency and durability in exterior wall decoration through industrial prefabrication and standardized installation, making it a preferred solution for exterior wall renovations of prefabricated panel houses.