Differences Between Prefabricated and Reinforced Concrete Structures
While reinforced concrete structures are frequently used in the construction industry, prefabricated buildings, which have become widespread recently, are mostly used in areas such as housing, construction site mobilization, and economic and social facilities. Prefabricated buildings are created by assembling panels pre-produced in factories on site. These structures stand out with their fast installation, determination of all processes from the beginning and their economy. Reinforced concrete structures are formed as a result of the concrete pouring process at the construction site. Construction may take longer time and be more expensive.
While prefabricated buildings are lighter and can be dismantled and assembled elsewhere, reinforced concrete structures are more durable and long-lasting.
Additionally, prefabricated structures are generally preferred for single-storey or low-rise buildings. Reinforced concrete structures are more suitable for high-rise buildings. Both types of construction have various advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it should be preferred depending on the individual needs of the project or people.
Purpose of Usage
Prefabricated buildings are designed to meet fast and economical construction needs. They are generally preferred for the construction of single-storey or maximum three-storey buildings. The process involves panels and other components being pre-manufactured in factories and then assembled on-site.
For this reason, prefabricated buildings are used in situations where quick solutions are required, such as urgent housing needs and temporary structures. Additionally, prefabricated structures can be easily moved from one region to another, thanks to their ability to be disassembled and reassembled.
On the other hand, reinforced concrete structures have greater durability and design flexibility. It can also be preferred for large and complex projects such as high-rise buildings, bridges and shopping malls. Reinforced concrete involves processes such as pouring concrete at the construction site. Therefore, it leads more time and cost. However, it offers advantages like long-term use and high durability.
Production Material
Prefabricated building production materials generally have a variety of options. The most common types of prefabricated panels are sandwich panel, composite panel, fiber cement panel. Thanks to the insulation material used in the panels of prefabricated buildings, it is resistant to fire, heat and cold. Since products suitable for the climate of the region are used, prefabricated houses can be easily built in different climatic conditions. In addition, it offers various design options to sort people’s demands. There are many different alternatives regarding the selected material, appearance of the prefabricated house and square meter options.
Assembly Process
Prefabricated structures are completed by assembling pre-produced parts brought to the construction site. This process generally proceeds as follows:
- In the first stage, the procedures begin by obtaining a license from the municipality. This process includes the approval of the project’s static report, architectural, electrical and mechanical projects.
- Afterwards, the foundation of the prefabricated structure needs to be prepared. Concrete is used as the floor. It will provide foundation reinforcement and support for the structure.
- Components produced in the factory are shipped to the construction site.
- The components of the prefabricated structure are assembled on site and the assembly process continues. All the panels are brought together with steel connections. Roof trusses are also produced and assembled in advance. The assembly process must be carried out very delicately and carefully by experts. Because correct assembly is very important for the structure to be durable.
- The exterior of the building is optionally painted or covered with different building materials. It is decorated according to design features.
- Infrastructure systems such as electricity and water, which are prepared before installation, are made functional.
Production Stages
Prefabricated building production has a process that includes design, production, transportation, assembly and final fine workmanship stages. In the first stage, the design is made and suitable materials are selected. Then, during the production phase, the parts are produced in the factory in line with the design.
The produced parts are transported to the construction site. Installation is made on a foundation whose concrete floor has been prepared and the infrastructure has been established. During the assembly phase, the panels are brought together and the structure is shaped. After the painting or coating process, it is decorated according to preference. In general, this process occurs quickly and in a controlled manner.
Life of the House
The lifespan of prefabricated houses varies depending on the materials used, maintenance and environmental conditions. Prefabricated buildings constructed with the appropriate components selected in accordance with the climate of the region, the proper insulation materials and the right assembly generally offer a lifespan of 50 years if well cared for. It is important to work with expert companies that will provide all these requirements.
Factors such as climatic conditions, water exposure and humidity can shorten the lifespan of prefabricated houses. Buildings require constant maintenance and repair. These factors have a significant impact on extending the time of prefabricated structures.
Cost
The cost of prefabricated construction may vary depending on many factors. The square meter of the building, its design, used materials, production, assembly and logistics costs are the main factors affecting the total cost. In general, a small prefabricated house has a low cost, while houses with different designs and made with advanced materials can be higher.
At the same time, larger or customized projects may cost more. For the precise amount, it is advised that you get in touch with a company in this industry that accounts for the costs of local assembly and production.
Earthquake Resistance
The earthquake resistance of prefabricated building types may vary depending on many factors. If elements such as material quality and engineering design are applied properly, these structures maintain their durability. Prefabricated buildings proceed in a controlled manner, as approval of the static project is obtained from the municipality before the project begins.
These structures not only offer fast assembly and economic advantages but also ensure that living spaces are kept safer against earthquake risk. Since it consists of very light materials and is first-degree earthquake-resistant, prefabricated ready-made structure’s risk is low. As the entire carrier system is made of high-density galvanized steel, it does not rust or deform. It is produced by making heat and static calculations suitable for all kinds of climatic conditions. For this reason, it is expected that prefabricated buildings will take more place among the buildings constructed in the future.
