Buildings are designed to withstand the downward pull of gravity, yet earthquakes shake a building in all directions -- up and down, but most of all, sideways. There are several common issues that can limit a building's ability to withstand this sideways shaking.
Common building problems
Most houses are not as safe as they could be. The following presents some common structural problems and how to recognize them. Once you determine if your building has one or more of these problems, prioritize how and when to fix them, and get started.Soft first stories. Look for larger openings in the lower floor, such as a garage door or a hillside house built on stilts. Consult a professional to determine if your building is adequately braced.
Unreinforced masonry. All masonry (brick or block walls) should be reinforced. Some communities have a program for retrofitting buildings made of unreinforced masonry. If your house has masonry as a structural element consult a structural engineer to find what can be done. Inadequately braced chimneys are a more common problem. Consult a professional to determine if your chimney is safe.
Myth: "WE HAVE GOOD BUILDING CODES SO WE MUST HAVE GOOD BUILDINGS"
The best building codes in the world do nothing for buildings
built before a code was enacted. While the codes have been updated, the
older buildings are still in place. Fixing problems in older buildings
-- retrofitting -- is the responsibility of the building's owner.
Source: earthquakecountry.org
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