Julian Construction Blog

Retrofitting a Home for Earthquakes

By Shawn Kyles

An earthquake can cause serious damage to a home, especially if the building has not been retrofitted.  Retrofitting is the modification of a structure by adding new components to make the building stronger.  Following the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the severity of structural issues in residential neighborhoods varied considerably from house to house depending on the steps each homeowner had taken to fortify their home.

Statistics show time and again that during seismic activity, houses that have been retrofitted will have less damage than a home that hasn’t been reinforced.  This was the case in the Long Beach earthquake of 1933, which resulted in the structural failure of brick buildings without reinforced masonry walls, including many school buildings in the area.  Buildings with reinforced concrete had very little, if any, structural issues.  In the aftermath of the magnitude 6.25 quake, California’s Riley Act was adopted, which required local governments throughout the state to establish building departments and inspect newly constructed homes and businesses.  During the years that followed, new building codes were implemented requiring the bolting of any wooden walls to the structure’s foundation.

House bolting is a method of retrofitting in which a home is securely fastened to the foundation. It reduces the potential for earthquake damage by increasing the home’s resistance to ground motion.  Any house built prior to 1950 that has not been retrofitted, will not be attached to its foundation; it is simply resting on the home’s concrete base.  In an earthquake, structures like these can easily slide off of their foundation and collapse.  Many of the homes that fell off of their foundation or were damaged during the Northridge quake were not bolted to the foundation.

Another way a home’s structural integrity can be improved is by bracing cripple walls.  A cripple wall is the wall between the first floor of a home and the foundation. The walls create the crawl space that is often found underneath a home. Cripple walls are usually only covered by exterior wood siding or stucco, and are considered the weakest part of a building.  Bracing the walls with plywood will increase their strength and help prevent the house from swaying during a quake.

If you are concerned about your home’s ability to withstand an earthquake, contact a foundation repair expert and request an inspection of your property.  An experienced foundation professional will know the best way to retrofit your house, and can look for other foundation issues that may need to be addressed in order to minimize earthquake damage.

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Earthquakes on the Rise--Is Los Angeles Next?

by Brittany Kyles

On May 18, 2010, the seismically active California-Mexico border area was rattled by a sizeable earthquake shaking the San Diego region, reaching 4.5 in magnitude. The quake was an aftershock of the major 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit the northern Mexico region April 4, Easter Sunday, and the new quake was felt throughout the San Diego area, even reaching as far north as parts of Los Angeles.

The quake was centered approximately 18 miles southwest of El Centro, the Imperial County seat in California’s southeastern corner. It occurred only miles below the earth’s surface, reaching 8.1 miles in depth. No damage was immediately reported.

Within the last year, several major earthquakes have led to death, damage and destruction across the world, including in Haiti, Chile, Indonesia, Spain and Puerto Rico. With the recent quakes in San Diego it seems more than likely that Los Angeles could be due for another big one.

Therefore, now more than ever is the time to prepare, for the more than obvious natural disaster that could be headed our way. We want to avoid the drastic consequences that these violent earthquakes create within our lives, with loved ones, and with our homes and communities.

The Northridge earthquake in 1994 took a serious toll on the community and the individuals affected. Buildings collapsed, apartment buildings were split in two, and lives were lost.

Most older homes in California and elsewhere throughout the United States do not have the reinforcement needed to protect against a large earthquake, and as a result these disasters can destroy a life, a home or a business.

Therefore, having your home reinforced, by a process known as earthquake retrofitting or house bolting, will prove very beneficial. This process secures your house to the foundation, so that during an earthquake, with its sideways forces and motions, the home does not move off of its foundation. It will essentially protect your home and family from the inevitable earthquake that may be due for Los Angeles.

An earthquake retrofit is the process of firmly attaching a house to its concrete foundation using foundation plates and anchor bolts. Because California is "earthquake country," the up-and-down and side-to-side motion of an earthquake can shake an unbolted house off its foundation, making for a very costly repair job.

It is important to find a company in your area that specializes in home foundation repair and construction, and have them do a foundation inspection on your home. They will determine if there is currently any damage or weaknesses in your foundation, and advise you on any needed earthquake retrofitting or other reinforcement or repairs that are needed to protect you from a potential major quake. The foundation inspection would include looking at the house bolting and seeing if it is adequate and if any other reinforcements are needed in your home. The inspection is usually free and the cost of any house bolting and reinforcements will usually be a lot less than moving your house back onto its foundation if an earthquake causes it to slide off.

It is much better to prepare now and have the peace of mind that are as ready as possible, rather than kick yourself later.

Rampant Earthquakes: Will California Be Next?

by Brittany Kyles

In the last year regions all over the world have become affected by increasing natural disasters. The catastrophic earthquake in Haiti ranging in a magnitude of 7.0 left the impoverished country in ruins due to unstable structures and foundations. Over three million people were affected by the quake and an estimated 230,000 people have died.

In Chile the recent earthquake reached a magnitude of 8.8, which created a tsunami that devastated many neighboring coastal cities. Yet, because Chile homes bear much stronger foundations, many deaths were prevented. And recently the earthquake in Baja California with a magnitude of 7.2 left over 100 people injured and was felt from Mexico all the way to Malibu. Furthermore, the current shattering 7.8 earthquake in Indonesia has created additional detrimental effects on the nation.

In recent months it seems earthquakes have become ever more present and severe; magnitudes of these quakes continue to be extremely high, resulting in many deaths, injuries and destruction to the areas affected.

Thus, it has become evident that earthquakes, now more than ever, pose a serious threat to the state of California, because California shares the same fault line as many of the regions that have been recently affected by these gigantic quakes. With the latest series of earthquakes that have continued to persist and affect regions all over the world, it seems that as a resident in California, it is extremely important to prepare one’s home foundation and structures in case one of these epidemic quakes strikes here.

There are many benefits to living in California, yet California also is one of the most prevalent sites for earthquakes in the United States. Therefore, in order to secure your future, the future of your loved ones and belongings, now is the time to reinforce your home, before one of these rising seismic quakes shatters your home, business, or leaves loved ones in danger. California is ‘earthquake country’ and we who live here should be aware that the up-and-down and side-to-side motion of an earthquake can shake an unbolted house off its foundation.

Therefore, in order to secure your future and safety, you need to see a foundation specialist in your area, who will create a safe environment by securing and bolting the foundation, in order to withstand an earthquake or diminish the damage inflicted. Now is the time to take action in preventing the future destruction of the next earthquake which is likely to strike California sooner, rather than later.

Earthquakes in the News – Has Earth Become More Unstable in 2010?

Julian Construction Checks the Records to See Whether Earthquake Frequency and Magnitude Are on the Rise

Founder of Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), Julian De La Torre, could not help but notice that major earthquakes seemed to be in the news almost weekly. “Haiti, Chile, Baja California, China – all 7.0 or greater and all within the first 3 months of 2010.” Julian said. “Given the nature of our business, I wanted to know what this might be telling us and whether the planet was experiencing an unusually high number of earthquakes.” So he looked it up.

The U.S. Geological Survey tracks earthquake activity around the world. It turns out there is a great deal more activity than generally thought - about 50 earthquakes are recorded every day. The yearly average is 17 major earthquakes (7.0 to 7.9) and one that will be measured at 8.0 or higher. So, at least so far, this year’s activity is not out of line with the past and the data is not showing any increase in seismic events. This year’s earthquakes are striking populated areas, causing tremendous damage and generating headlines, but neither the frequency nor the magnitude are unusual.

“What this year’s earthquake news is telling us is not that the world is ending, but simply ‘Be prepared’.” Julian continued. “The location and timing of earthquakes is not subject to prediction with current technology, so good preparation is the best defense.”

Julian Construction is offering an inspection of your home’s foundation at no charge. For those who need to finance any needed repair or retrofit, Julian Construction offers 0% financing.

Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Mr. De La Torre formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

Comparison of Earthquakes in Chile and Haiti Shows Value of Preparation

Julian Construction Points to Building Codes as a Key Factor that Minimized Tragedy in Chile and Devastated Haiti.

Founder of Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), Julian De La Torre, was stunned by the vastly different outcomes of the two natural disasters. “Chile’s earthquake was 500 times more powerful than Haiti’s, yet less than 1000 people died compared to more than 220,000 in Haiti.” De La Torre said. “Chile is used to earthquakes and has experienced huge events within the last 50 years, resulting in rigorous building codes that kept most buildings from collapse. Haiti’s last big earthquake was 250 years ago and it is reported there are no building codes there at all. Experience and preparation made an enormous difference.”

Chile’s quake was also centered deeper and further away from population areas, both favorable factors for survival of both people and architecture. Chile’s emergency services have been in place and were in evidence at once – this kind of natural disaster was not new to them. Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, had no planning in place.

“California also has good building codes designed to prevent building collapse and minimize damage from earthquakes.” Julian continued. “But much of our housing stock and a considerable number of commercial buildings predate these codes and so are at risk. The anchoring of the structure to the foundations of the building is a common area of vulnerability. It is also our area of expertise.”

Julian Construction is offering an inspection of your home’s foundation at no charge. For those who need to finance any needed repair or retrofit, Julian Construction offers 0% financing.

Julian De La Torre has been retrofitting since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Mr. De La Torre formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

Pico Rivera 4.4. Magnitude Earthquake Prompts Offer of Free Foundation Inspection

Julian Construction Wants Southern California’s Homeowners to be Prepared for the Next One

LOS ANGELES: Founder of Julian Construction (www.julianconstruction.com), Julian De La Torre, breathed a sigh of relief when this week’s earthquake, centered near Pico Rivera eleven miles east of Los Angeles civic center, turned out to be minor, resulting in little damage. “It is a wake-up call for home owners and property managers who are not certain of the strength of their foundations.” Julian said. “We live on top of an active seismic area and the time to prepare is before the earth starts shaking the next time.”

Areas of concern include the security of the attachment of a building to its foundations and how well the floors are tied down. Julian Construction will inspect at no charge. “Chile was so much better prepared than Haiti for earthquakes, resulting in far less damage and loss of life. The next earthquake may not be only a 4.4 so I urge you to get an inspection so that you can be prepared,” Julian stated.

Julian Construction also offers 0% financing for those who need to finance their any needed repair or retrofit. 

Julian De La Torre has been doing earthquake retrofitting and foundation repair since the early 1990s and has personally worked on over 6,600 homes in Southern California. With this unmatched experience in the substructure areas of a home, Julian formed Julian Construction in 2001 with the goal of making safer homes, apartments and commercial properties throughout Southern California. His partner Shawn Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety, and is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting. Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model - no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com.

16 Year Anniversary of Northridge Earthquake - Preparing for the Future, Ensures a Safer Tomorrow

by Brittany Kyles

On January 17, 1994, the devastating Northridge earthquake struck the city of Los Angeles, California.  At a shattering momentum of 6.7, the earthquake destroyed thousands of homes, caused 75 deaths and over 9,000 injuries. Nearly $20 billion dollars were estimated in damages to the city, including apartment buildings which were split into two, collapsed homes, broken sidewalks and driveways, and many other serious ramifications in several neighboring cities.

Damage reached as far as 85 miles away from the epicenter, leaving much of the San Fernando Valley in ruins.  As a result the real estate market took a negative downturn, creating added economic distress for those affected.

In California, earthquakes pose a constant threat, essentially since much of California resides on a active fault. Therefore, in order to ensure the safety of your home, loved ones, and precious belongings, it is imperative to reinforce your structures, a sort of “earthquake proofing” insurance.

Julian De la Torre of Julian Construction Inc. has been reinforcing, retrofitting and house bolting homes since the early 1990’s, aiding in the prevention of earthquake damages for thousands of homes. “Julian Construction Inc. specializes in foundation bolting and the bracing of cripple walls (short stud walls between the floor and foundation of some houses) by using structural-grade plywood which, if needed, provides greater resistance to earthquakes”(http://www.julianconstruction.com).

By taking these steps, along with proper floor securing measures, you can better equip your home with the strength to fight these extreme disasters. The Northridge earthquake left a lasting impression on those who endured its wrath and yet, much of the damage could have been avoided if these properties had been properly retrofitted. Therefore it seems only sensible to take such precautions as a resident in California.

Many believe the next “big one” is on its way, which stresses the importance of taking proper safety measures before the next disaster takes your home, or your life. And when it comes to the safety of your loved ones and home, it is important to choose an expert. Founders of Julian Construction have been in the business of securing homes for over 20 years, and when you work with this company, you are working to the best. January 17, marks the anniversary of this disparaging catastrophe, and to start off the New Year, it’s only logical to prepare for the future.  

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Brittany Kyles is a former intern at a popular newspaper in Santa Barbara and is now perusing her MA in journalism. Her father Shawn Kyles is an expert in foundation repair and house bolting, and is a partner in Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) located in Los Angeles. Shawn has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with both engineering firms and local departments of building and safety. Julian Construction can be contacted by phone at 323-733-3377. The company’s blog is http://julianconstruction.typepad.com/

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