The Roof is Made of Prefabricated Panels

Using prefabricated panels for roofs was a common practice in early 20th-century construction, but currently, there are controversies and hidden dangers associated with using prefabricated panels for self-built roofs, and they have gradually been phased out.

Types and Production of Prefabricated Panels

Prefabricated panels are cement components produced in factories, mainly divided into solid and hollow types. During production, a model is first made by nailing wooden boards. Then, steel bars are arranged inside the model. Finally, cement is poured in, and after the cement solidifies, a prefabricated panel is formed. Hollow-structured prefabricated panels achieve lightweighting by reducing the concrete in non-load-bearing parts. While ensuring a certain strength, they reduce the overall weight, facilitating transportation and installation.

Application Advantages of Prefabricated Panels in Early Construction

In the early 20th century, prefabricated panels were widely used in building construction due to their relatively simple production process, low cost, and fast construction speed. The factory-prefabricated method ensured relatively stable component quality, meeting the needs of large-scale construction at that time and playing a positive role in accelerating urban development and solving housing problems.

Current Controversies and Hidden Dangers of Using Prefabricated Panels

• Joints are prone to cracking: The joints between two prefabricated panels are weak points in the structure. During long-term use, factors such as temperature changes, foundation settlement, and building vibrations can cause cracking at the joints. Once the joints crack, it not only affects the appearance of the building but may also lead to rainwater leakage, damaging interior decoration and the structure, and affecting the building's service life.
• Low structural safety: Compared with modern frame structures and reinforced concrete structures, prefabricated panel structures have poorer integrity and seismic performance. In the event of natural disasters such as earthquakes, prefabricated panel buildings are more prone to collapse, posing a serious threat to the lives of occupants.

Replacement with Modern Building Structures

Nowadays, prefabricated panel structures have been phased out in building construction, and frame structures, reinforced concrete structures, etc., are commonly used. These structures have better integrity, seismic performance, and durability, and can better ensure the safety and quality of buildings.