FACT: Woodframe buildings at greater risk
There is a projected $33 billion loss to unreinforced buildings in Southern California.
Woodframe construction generally fares well in earthquake shaking and woodframe buildings are less likely than other types of buildings to be damaged. However, because woodframe construction is so prevalent in California, substantial losses will still occur.
Woodframe building damage is most likely:
• in older homes where the house is not bolted to the foundation or the cripple wall is not reinforced.
• in buildings with a "soft first story" - a large opening such as garage door or display windows on the first floor and without compensating reinforcement.
• in buildings where building codes were not rigorously followed--a condition difficult to recognized until after the earthquake.
Woodframe construction generally fares well in earthquake shaking and woodframe buildings are less likely than other types of buildings to be damaged. However, because woodframe construction is so prevalent in California, substantial losses will still occur.
Woodframe building damage is most likely:
• in older homes where the house is not bolted to the foundation or the cripple wall is not reinforced.
• in buildings with a "soft first story" - a large opening such as garage door or display windows on the first floor and without compensating reinforcement.
• in buildings where building codes were not rigorously followed--a condition difficult to recognized until after the earthquake.
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