How to make earthquake resistant buildings?
One of the most important ways to make a building earthquake resilient is to incorporate resilient building techniques during the design and construction phases. With resilient building techniques, the building is designed to absorb the energy of the ground motions that are expected to occur during an earthquake. This reduces the stress on the structure and the consequences of the earthquake on the occupants.
How to make earthquake resistant homes in California?
California is no stranger to natural disasters. From wildfires to earthquakes the state has it all. California’s earthquake zone includes the entire state, from the California coast to the Sierra Nevada mountains. California is also home to one of the most seismically active areas in the world, which means earthquakes are likely to happen and can be quite damaging. If you live in California, it’s important to understand how to make your home earthquake-resistant.
How to make earthquake resistant homes?
The first and most important step to make your house earthquake-resistant is to install engineered stone or concrete slab floors and walls as the main building materials. These materials are extremely strong and can sustain a great deal of force without damage. Even though reinforced concrete is one of the best building materials available, it is important to note that reinforced concrete buildings can be damaged during earthquakes.
How to make earthquake resistant houses?
In California, the building codes for earthquake-resistance in new residential construction are mandatory. The requirements were put in place after the devastating Northridge earthquake in 1994. This earthquake, which had an estimated cost of $28 billion, killed 16 people and injured nearly 1,500 more. The buildings that were built to the highest codes at the time of the earthquake were those that were least prone to damage.
How to make earthquake resistant structures?
The natural destructive forces of earthquakes can be reduced by constructing buildings with high-quality materials that are strong and resilient to the effects of natural disasters. Staying away from areas that are prone to liquefaction and landslides is also important.