Is your building ready for the next earthquake? Many commercial buildings in high-risk seismic zones like California, Oregon, and Washington weren’t built to withstand strong shaking. Even a moderate quake can cause severe damage—or worse, total collapse– without modern structural reinforcements. Seismic retrofitting strengthens a building’s weak points, reinforcing critical connections to reduce the risk […]
Hiring the right seismic retrofit contractor is crucial in protecting your commercial, industrial, or multi-family property from earthquake damage. A well-executed retrofit strengthens your building’s structure, reduces the risk of collapse, and ensures compliance with safety regulations without disturbing tenants. But how do you find a contractor with the right experience, skills, and transparency to […]
When it comes to seismic safety, it’s common to focus on fault lines as a primary cause of earthquake damage. While fault line proximity is significant, relying solely on it can leave your commercial and industrial buildings vulnerable to other unforeseen dangers. Evaluating a range of risk factors beyond fault lines is essential to safeguarding […]
Seismic retrofitting is not only an investment in your building’s safety but also a smart way to save money. By leveraging tax deductions, depreciation benefits, and local incentives, your business can reduce upfront costs while improving long-term financial stability. In this article, we’ll explore how seismic retrofits can help your business make the most of […]
Non-ductile buildings, often called “non-ductile concrete” or “non-ductile reinforced concrete” buildings, are a critical concern in earthquake-prone regions. These structures lack the flexibility to withstand seismic activity. This rigidity makes them highly susceptible to damage or collapse during an earthquake, posing significant risks to occupants, property, and communities. This guide will explain what non-ductile buildings […]
Earthquakes don’t just shake the ground—they test the strength of every structure built upon it. For many types of commercial buildings, especially those constructed before modern safety codes, seismic events reveal dangerous vulnerabilities that could put lives and investments at risk. From concrete tilt-ups to soft-story apartments with open ground floors, each type of commercial […]
California is one of the most seismically active regions in the world, experiencing frequent tremors ranging from minor shakes to potentially catastrophic events. While most earthquakes in California go unnoticed, larger ones can cause widespread damage, endangering lives and property. This article explores the frequency, causes, and impacts of California earthquakes while debunking myths and […]
Damage to a commercial building after the Northridge earthquake. Source: USGS Earthquakes are among the most common natural disasters, yet standard property insurance rarely covers them. Property owners in high-risk areas often need separate earthquake insurance, which provides financial protection for rebuilding, repairs, and other expenses. While the risks of earthquakes are well-known in high-seismic […]
Earthquakes strike without warning, and not all buildings are designed to withstand their force. If you own or manage a commercial or industrial property, it’s crucial to understand whether your building is at risk. Soft-story buildings—characterized by open ground levels and limited structural support—are among the most vulnerable to collapse during seismic events. Recognizing these […]
Many property owners know seismic retrofitting offers essential benefits, but fewer understand why timing matters so much. Waiting to retrofit increases risks and can mean missed opportunities to improve property value and safety. While earthquakes aren’t common everywhere, nearly 75 percent of the U.S. could experience damaging earthquake shaking, according to a recent U.S. Geological […]