B. Unreinforced Masonry or Inadequately Reinforced Concrete Foundations
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III. Structural Problems and Strengthening
Methods B. Unreinforced Masonry or Inadequately Reinforced Concrete Foundations |
Older buildings may have brick foundations or concrete foundations that do not have enough steel reinforcement. These can collapse in an earthquake and may need to be completely or partially replaced. An architect, civil, or structural engineer can recommend the appropriate action to take. If the existing foundation is sufficiently strong on the whole, it may be strengthened at the points the new anchor bolts are to be installed.
When the entire foundation, or portions of it, need to be replaced, the house may need to be shored up as described above. The reconstruction work can be done with the building in place if the foundation is accessible from the outside or if there is a basement or tall crawl space through which a contractor can gain access. Portions of the building can be temporarily supported, the existing foundation excavated, and the new foundation constructed