Replacement of Prefabricated Panels in Houses
The prefabricated panels of old houses can be replaced with new ones, but certain conditions must be met and a standardized process must be followed.
Replacement Conditions
The government will comprehensively evaluate the need for renovation or demolition of prefabricated panel buildings based on factors such as building safety performance and urban planning. If a house poses safety hazards such as structural instability or severe cracks, or if it obstructs urban planning development, it may be demolished. If the house is structurally sound and only requires renovation due to aging facilities or damaged prefabricated panels, the panels can be replaced. The new policy in 2025 prioritizes the handling of Grade D dilapidated houses and prefabricated panel houses built before the 1980s, providing opportunities for renovation of these high-risk buildings.
Replacement Process
Replacing prefabricated panels requires professional team operation and involves three steps:
- Removal of Old Panels: The safety of the original structure must be assessed to avoid risks such as collapse during removal.
- Customization of New Panels: New prefabricated panels must be strictly customized according to the original dimensions and specifications to ensure compatibility with the existing structure and stability.
- Installation and Fixation: Professional equipment is used to accurately install the new panels, which are then fixed through methods such as steel bar reinforcement and concrete pouring to ensure a secure connection.
Note: The overall removal process is highly dangerous, and non-professionals are not allowed to operate it擅自操作 (translated as 'operate it without authorization').
Follow-up Recommendations
After replacing the new panels, the overall structure of the house may have been damaged due to long-term use, and regular maintenance and inspections are required, focusing on areas such as the connections between the new panels and the original structure and wall cracks. If the house is very old (e.g., built before the 1980s), even after replacing the prefabricated panels, its earthquake resistance and load-bearing capacity may still be lower than modern standards. It is recommended to consider overall renovation or reconstruction to improve living safety and comfort. For example, you can apply for dilapidated house renovation subsidies in accordance with policies or optimize the structure by reinforcing walls and adding seismic components.
Summary: Replacing prefabricated panels requires safety assessment as a prerequisite, relies on professional construction, and requires continuous maintenance after replacement. For high-risk old houses, overall renovation or reconstruction is a more thorough solution.
