If you own or manage a commercial or industrial property in the western US, you’ve likely wondered whether your building needs a seismic retrofit. It’s a common concern–especially for owners of older structures who want clarity before investing in any upgrades. This guide explains how to determine whether your building qualifies for a seismic retrofit, […]
Soft-story buildings — those with open ground floors or large storefronts — are among the most vulnerable structures during earthquakes. When the first floor lacks the rigidity to support the upper levels during lateral shaking, the result can be catastrophic: leaning, cracking, or even collapse. Earthquake data and engineering studies underscore the urgency of seismic […]
Roof condensation poses a hidden threat to the structural integrity of commercial and industrial buildings. If left unchecked, it can cause severe structural damage, lead to costly repairs, and create safety hazards, which can result in significant financial and operational disruptions for business owners. Before diving into the risks and solutions, let’s explore what roof […]
Seismic retrofits in occupied buildings don’t have to mean chaos. When property managers hear “seismic retrofit” or “structural repair,” one thought often comes to mind: tenant disruption. Dust, noise, blocked access, late-night phone calls, unhappy tenants—it’s a nightmare scenario for managers who already juggle vendors, compliance, and budgets every day. The good news? It doesn’t […]
Every third Thursday in October, the Great California ShakeOut helps millions of Californians rehearse their earthquake response. On October 16, 2025, at 10:16 a.m., participants will take one minute to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” Over the years, the ShakeOut has grown dramatically. More than 10.2 million Californians joined in 2024, and over 10 million […]
Managing a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) portfolio means constantly balancing profit, compliance, and tenant needs. But in earthquake-prone regions, REIT seismic retrofitting isn’t just smart—it’s essential. It’s tempting to delay seismic retrofits—especially when budgets are tight and daily demands pile up. But waiting to retrofit or repair is often the most expensive choice, as […]
Seismic retrofitting isn’t just about crunching numbers. It’s about how those numbers are interpreted, turned into design plans, and built in the real world. The structural engineer you choose will shape nearly every aspect of your project—from cost and complexity to safety and long-term value. But not all engineers approach seismic retrofits the same way. […]
Structural wall repair is essential to keeping your commercial or industrial building safe, strong, and aligned with SEL and SUL targets. Cracks, moisture damage, and shifting walls may seem minor, but they could signal deeper issues that put your structure (and your tenants) at risk. If you’ve noticed signs of wall damage, this guide will […]
When you’re planning a seismic retrofit, unexpected challenges can drive up costs fast. Value engineering helps you plan smarter—identifying cost-saving alternatives early, before changes become expensive or complex. With the right guidance, you can reduce expenses without sacrificing safety or long-term performance. What Is Value Engineering? Value engineering is the process of reviewing a project […]
Unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings are among the most vulnerable structures in an earthquake. Many were built before modern seismic codes existed, and their brittle construction makes them prone to severe damage or collapse during ground shaking. In the 1994 Northridge earthquake, dozens of URM buildings in Southern California suffered partial or total collapse. Many had […]