This Preservation Brief provides information on how earthquakes affect historic buildings, how a historic preservation ethic can guide responsible retrofit decisions, and how various methods of seismic rehabilitation can protect human lives and historic structures. The Brief provides a description of the most common vulnerabilities of various building construction types and the seismic strengthening methods most often needed to remedy them. A glossary of technical terms is also provided at the end of the Brief.

Undertaking the seismic rehabilitation of a historic building is a process that requires careful planning and execution, and the coordinated work of architects, engineers, code officials, contractors, and agency administrators. Project personnel working together can ensure that the architectural, structural, financial, programmatic, cultural, and social values of historic buildings are preserved, while rendering them safe for continued use.

Related products:

Homebuilders' Guide to Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction -print format can be found here:  https://bookstore.gpo.gov/products/sku/064-000-00046-2

Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business; Includes Construction Plans (CD) can be found here: https://bookstore.gpo.gov/products/sku/064-000-00069-1

Preservation Briefs series can be found here: https://bookstore.gpo.gov/catalog/science-technology/construction-architecture/renovation-historic-preservation/preservation-b