The study of the performance of jointing system in the prefabricated buildings / Halizai Shaarani

Prefabrication can speed up the construction time. In Malaysia this system was implemented since the begining of the Fourth Malaysia Plan. Most of the prefabricated system adopted are of panel system involving walIs and slabs. With the exceptional of water leakage and seepage through joint! these prefabricated buildings are performing satisfactorily. The problem of leakage and seepage is due to the jointing failure in resisting wetness and dampness. The culture of taking 'splash bath' by our society make the condition worse especially at the bathroom area. Following to that the existing prefabricated system is reviewed to determine the factors that lead to this problem. Improvements on the quality of the joint is required. This can be done by providing water tight sheet for the single joint or go for drained joint. At the same time the workmanship of joint construction on site must be controlled. It must be done in proper procedure to attain the standard required. Another alternative is to adopt tunnel system or box system whereby the joint problem at the corners and between slab and wall can be eliminated.