CHAPTER 2
Prefabricated Buildings
TODAY, ARMY installations all over the world are using
outward appearance similar to the building shown in
prefabricated buildings. These buildings are used mostly
figure 28. The vertical strips used to cover the joints
in localities where materials cannot be purchased locally.
between the exterior wall panels distinguish this building
To save time and material, as well as to simplify erection,
as a panel type prefab. Look at figure 29 and then
prefabricated buildings are standardized and available for
compare it with figure 28. Figure 29 shows a partially
use in Temperate, Tropic and Arctic regions.
assembled panel type prefab building, while figure 28
2. As a carpentry specialist, you will be erecting
shows a completed building. Note the distinct lines made
prefabricated buildings. Like other structures, they must
by the joints between the panels. Also, note in figure 29
start with a good foundation. As we follow the
that the framework is a part of the panel and that no
procedures for the erection of one of these buildings, you
separate framing is required.
4-3. Floors. The floor of a panel prefab building
will see that its construction is similar to that of any frame
building.
consists of flooring, joists, and girders. The boards are
3. Besides constructing buildings, prefabricated or
fastened to two or three joists to form a panel 4 feet wide
otherwise, much of your time will be spent in keeping the
and 8 feet long. The panels are placed on girders that are
buildings good repair. This is your work in maintenance
supported by posts or column. The panels are fastened in
and repair. Maintenance and repair work will challenge
place with screws, and the joints between the panels are
all of your building skill. You will inspect work done by
covered with a T-shaped metal strip. When plywood is
others, some of it done a long time ago. Whether it was
used for the floor, the edges are protected by an H-shaped
poorly done or is just wearing out so that it could require
metal strip that is inserted between two panels. This strip
expensive repairs, you will be able to correct the trouble.
also prevents dust and small objects from collecting in the
4. This chapter discusses erecting, maintaining, and
joint. The panels are easily removed without damaging
repairing prefabricated buildings. It also discusses the
the edge or the metal strip. If you remove the end or side
requirements for constructing these buildings in
panels first.
Temperate, Tropic and Arctic regions.
4-4. Repairs can be made to individual floor panels in
the same manner repairs are made to floors in other
buildings. Also, the panels are interchangeable. Repaired
4. Prefabricated Wooden Buildings
or weak panels may be moved from the main path of
4-1. A prefabricated (prefab) wooden building is
traffic and exchanged with stronger panels located in
assembled of precut members. The joists, plates, studs,
other parts of the building.
rafters, etc., are ready for assembly when they are
4-5. There is a variety of floor panels for this type of
delivered to the building site. In some cases the precut
building, but only one type should be used on your post.
pieces may be partially assembled into standard size
Some panels have a subfloor, insulation, or both. The type
panels. These pane may be designed for use with a frame
you use will depend on the particular use to which panels
or they may be shaped in such a manner that the can be
will be put and the climate in which they will be used. For
bolted together to form floors, walls, and roofs. Let's look
example, flooring which must have heavy equipment must
at the construction of each type and the method of making
obviously be much stronger than that which will bear light
repairs.
equipment. Again, panels intended for use in hot, humid
4-2. Paneled Prefabricated Buildings. A wood
climates, such as are common in the Trop-
prefab that is assembled of panels will have an
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