ABAG Earthquake Quiz - Answer 7
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ABAG Earthquake Quiz - Answer 7
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Unfortunately,
most homes built prior to 1940 are much more vulnerable to being damaged
by earthquake shaking than those built after that time. The “fix” to
prevent this damage is to bolt the foundation sill plate to the concrete
foundation and to brace, or put plywood sheathing, on the inside of
the “cripple” wall between the foundation and the first floor. Some
older homes do not have concrete foundations. These foundations may
also have to be installed. There is no strong statistical difference
between the safety of homes built in the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
Damage to newer homes can occur because of “weak” openings, such as
around garage doors, particularly if the homes have a second floor.
However, gains in earthquake safety brought by improved building codes
have been offset by the use of “open” floor plans, larger window openings
and cathedral ceilings.
For more information about what you can do to help prevent damage to your home, click here. |
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