Prefabricated Panel Buildings

Prefabricated panel buildings are structures primarily constructed using prefabricated panels. They originated in the early 20th century and were extensively built in China during the 1970s and 1980s. However, they have gradually been phased out and are now mainly subject to repair and renovation, with only some dilapidated buildings being demolished.

Construction Background and Characteristics

The prefabricated panels used in these buildings are factory-made cement components available in both solid and hollow types. They are formed by nailing wooden models, arranging steel bars, and pouring cement. This construction method is mainly used for floor slabs and roof insulation layers. Funded by state-owned enterprises and government institutions, these buildings aimed to address housing needs for employees. Their primary advantages are fast construction speed and low cost, enabling them to quickly meet a large demand for housing in a short period.

Defects

• Weak Earthquake Resistance: Their earthquake resistance is generally lower than that of cast-in-place structures. The structure, composed of cement components joined together, struggles to withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes.
• Poor Integrity: The connection between prefabricated panels and beams is hinged, resulting in generally poor waterproofing, sound insulation, and thermal insulation performance. Components are prone to cracking, and joint gaps can lead to water leakage. Indoor temperatures are cold in winter and hot in summer, with poor ventilation. The lack of sound insulation means there is no privacy between neighbors.
• Short Service Life: Typically lasting 30 to 50 years (some sources say 30 to 40 years), which is much shorter than that of modern commercial housing. Prefabricated buildings that exceed their service life are prone to structural aging and are classified as dilapidated buildings requiring demolition or reinforcement.
• Difficult Structural Modifications: Load-bearing walls cannot be removed, and the housing design lacks humanization. For example, some units may have kitchens or bathrooms without windows and small living rooms.

Current Status and Disposal

With advancements in construction technology, cast-in-place concrete and prefabricated buildings are gradually replacing traditional prefabricated panel structures. In 2023, Chinese authorities prohibited the construction, renovation, and expansion of prefabricated panel buildings and other structures that do not comply with current standards within urban construction land areas. Since 2022, China has implemented renovation policies focusing on repairing and renovating prefabricated panel buildings, with only those meeting dilapidated building standards being demolished. The current approach to dealing with prefabricated panel buildings follows the principle of "adapting measures to local conditions and implementing differentiated strategies." Priority for demolition is given to buildings with damaged main structures, those unable to withstand natural disasters, those affecting municipal planning, and those located in prime urban areas. Compensation and resettlement for demolition follow the "Regulations on the Expropriation of Houses on State-owned Land and Compensation," with resettlement methods mainly including monetary compensation, physical resettlement, housing vouchers, and original-site reconstruction.