When the edges of two tectonic plates do friction the vibrations are created in the hard outer layer of the earth. These waves then flow through the layers of the earth. The earthquake occurs, and we feel its vibrations.
Earthquakes may cause different kinds of boundaries. Some of them generate tsunamis, while others shake the earth. Homes, bridges, and dams are just some structures that earthquakes might damage. In an earthquake, areas inside active seismic zones are susceptible to suffering extensive damage. It is important to act quickly, keep a track of accurate weather data and appropriately to reduce the damage that an earthquake might cause. Read further to get tips to protect your lovely home from earthquakes.
Preventing Damage to Your Home
1. Conduct a risk analysis on the elements located outside the residence that might pose a threat.
When evaluating the exterior elements that might endanger your property, remember that electrical cables, power lines, and older trees that are leaning or crooked can cause substantial damage during earthquakes. It is vital to reinforce the structure of your property to reduce the risk of future harm.
It is necessary to reinforce the structure of your property so that any possible harm may be avoided.
Reinforcing the base of your house with concrete and covering the ceiling with plywood will help protect it from falling things like power lines and electrical cables. Removing or cutting trees that could fall onto your house is also a good idea. In addition to fortifying your house, removing possible dangers from the area around it is another thing you can do to lessen the impact of falling things on your property.
2. Fix up your house if it needs fixing.
If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, it is important to thoroughly inspect your house and make any required repairs before an earthquake strikes. If you notice any cracks in your walls, chimney, foundation, or roof tiles, fix them immediately.
Plywood sheathing should be used below chimneys to reinforce the ceiling and stop bricks and mortar from falling through. Ensure any broken tiles are replaced, and any heavy roofing is properly fastened to the rafters.
Protect your chimney from collapse during an earthquake by fitting it with steel collar bracing. If you take these precautions, your house will be safer against earthquake damage.
3. Add support to cripple walls.
In order to prevent cripple walls from moving during earthquakes, it is crucial to reinforce them. The foundation and external walls of your house rely on this immensely.
Adding 2×4 boards between the vertical studs at the top and bottom of a cripple wall can help to brace it firmly against the foundation. This will provide additional support for your home’s structure in an earthquake.
4. To make your house more earthquake proof, you should reinforce the walls.
Make your house more earthquake-proof by enhancing its wall quality. Adding steel frames or plywood panels may help prevent further structural damage after an earthquake.
Anchor bolts should be driven through the frames and into the foundation to guarantee a solid connection. In the event of an earthquake, this will assist in keeping your house intact.
5. Fix sill plates to the ground in an appropriate manner.
Earthly-proof your property by properly attaching the sill plates to the foundation is essential. The sill plate, a horizontal wall component, supports walls and other vertical structures. It prevents the wall from directly touching the house’s base.
In the event of an earthquake, the sill plates may slip if they are not firmly fastened. To avoid this, use bolts with adequate length to pierce the plate and several inches of foundation every six feet along the outer walls.
6. Install windows with round corners or totally round.
To reduce the risk of window damage during an earthquake, consider installing windows with rounded corners. Rectangular window frames are more vulnerable to cracking and chipping at the corners when subjected to pressure from the earthquake shifting the frames.
By rounding out the corners of the window frames, you can help to preserve the windows and reduce the likelihood of damage during an earthquake. This simple measure can contribute significantly to the overall earthquake resistance of your home.
7. Restrain large equipment, furniture pieces, and appliances
To prevent damage and potential hazards during an earthquake, it is important to restrain large equipment, furniture pieces, and appliances in your home. This includes securing wall hangings, bookshelves, computers, and entertainment centers with flexible fasteners.
In addition, it is crucial to have heavy appliances like refrigerators and hot water heaters bolted down to prevent them from toppling over and breaking gas lines during an earthquake.
By taking these measures, you can help to reduce the risk of damage and ensure the safety of your home and its occupants during seismic activity.
Conclusion
It’s never too early to start preparing your house for an earthquake, and you definitely don’t want to wait until it’s too late. Prepare your house by following above mentioned steps to prevent any damage caused by the earthquake. Also, you can take a smart step by knowing accurate weather data before any disasters. This will help you to pre-plan for every situation going to happen.
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