Seismic Retrofits

Any building or other structure in a zone that is likely to have earthquakes could benefit from seismic retrofits. These retrofits can reduce the cost of repairs and, more importantly, protect the lives of the building's users. If a structure has survived earlier seismic activity, that does not mean it will survive undamaged in the next earthquake. It could have been weakened in ways that are difficult to see.

Seismic retrofits may seem expensive, but the cost of repairing major damage after an earthquake could be much more. The value of the property can be protected as well. Of course, the overriding purpose of seismic retrofits is to keep people from being hurt. All of these factors together make seismic retrofits an important investment.

Types of Seismic Retrofits
For a small structure such as a house, the best method of seismic retrofit is often as simple as bolting it firmly to its foundation. Attaching the structure to the foundation keeps the two together during the earthquake. Bracing lower floors in buildings with parking garages or other open space makes the building move together so the lower floors don't collapse. An outer steel skeleton can be attached to a building, shock absorbers can be installed in the lower areas, or a new stronger structure can be built next to the original building and attached as a brace. These are just a few of many possible techniques.

Deciding whether a structure needs seismic retrofits and what type to use is the job of structural and seismic engineers. They will make the best decision for the structure and recommend a course of action. For more about seismic retrofits, contact The KPA Group at www.thekpagroup.com.