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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Factors like construction cost value, experience, qualifications, and tenant operations are critical when selecting a contractor and engineer for your projects. Concrete tilt-up construction is one of the most popular methods in the commercial and industrial sectors due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, while tilt-up buildings offer many advantages, they also have some challenges—especially […]
Earthquake retrofitting is a crucial step for property owners in earthquake-prone areas. Earthquakes pose significant risks to both buildings and their occupants, making it essential to ensure that your property can withstand seismic forces. While the initial investment in retrofitting might seem substantial, the long-term benefits far outweigh the upfront costs. Not only does retrofitting […]
Despite advancements in building codes, older structures may still need to meet current seismic safety standards. Building owners, property managers, and investors must understand how an effective seismic retrofit process protects lives and commercial investments. Seismic retrofitting enhances a building’s safety and durability in earthquake-prone areas. Our comprehensive three-step process includes assessment, design, and implementation […]
Soft-story apartment buildings are characterized by open tuck-under parking or commercial space on the ground floor and residential units above. They are prevalent in many urban areas, especially in California, which is a high seismic activity region, and due to their structural vulnerabilities, they pose significant risks during earthquakes. One of the most significant concerns […]