Category: Uncategorized

Seattle is no stranger to earthquakes, and its historic homes are particularly vulnerable to seismic activity. Fortunately, seismic foundation retrofitting can help protect these structures from the worst of a major quake. This blog post will discuss the basics of seismic retrofitting and how it can help preserve the city’s history. 

What is Seismic Foundation Retrofitting? 

Seismic foundation retrofitting is a process in which structural elements are added or reinforced to make a building more resistant to shaking caused by an earthquake. This type of retrofitting typically involves reinforcing the foundation or walls of a structure and strengthening any parts of the building that may be weak or prone to collapse. It is important to note that not all buildings require seismic retrofitting; however, those located in areas prone to earthquakes should consider it. 

The Benefits for Historic Homes 

Seismic retrofitting has many benefits for historic homes in Seattle. Since these buildings were constructed before modern building codes, they may not have been designed with earthquakes in mind. As such, they are more likely to suffer significant damage during an earthquake than newer structures. 

By strengthening them with seismic retrofits, these homes can better withstand major quakes and remain standing even after the worst has passed. Additionally, seismic retrofits can help reduce damage caused by minor tremors regularly occurring in Seattle and other quake-prone areas. 

In addition to providing physical protection against earthquakes, seismic retrofits also offer financial benefits for homeowners in Seattle’s historic neighborhoods. 

Since these buildings have been around for decades, their value has increased significantly over time—but this value could be lost if they were destroyed during an earthquake and had to be replaced with new construction. By protecting them with seismic retrofits, homeowners can ensure that their investments remain safe from potential disasters and continue to appreciate over time.  

Evergreen Seismic Is Keeping Seattle Safe

Evergreen Seismic is proud to be protecting Seattle’s historic homes from the dangers associated with potential seismic activity. Our seismic foundation retrofitting provides additional reinforcement against earthquakes, helping keep these treasured buildings safe for generations. Contact us today for your free consultation and see how we can keep your property safe!

If you live in an area prone to earthquakes like Kenmore, it’s crucial to ensure your HVAC system is securely fastened in place. Not only can adequately installed and secured HVAC systems help protect the safety of your home during an earthquake, but they can also reduce damage to the system itself. So what’s involved in earthquake and seismic fastening for HVAC ductwork? Let’s take a look.

Earthquake and Seismic Fastening For HVAC: The Basics

Earthquake and seismic fastening involve securely attaching HVAC systems to walls or ceilings using a variety of specialized hardware.

This helps keep the system in place if there is an earthquake, reducing the risk of the system becoming damaged or dislodged. It also helps keep the system from becoming a hazard—if it falls during an earthquake, it could cause injury or further damage.

The type of hardware used for seismic fastening depends on the material being attached (e.g., wood, drywall, concrete) and the weight of the object being attached.

For example, heavier objects such as air conditioning units may require more secure installations than lighter objects such as vents or ductwork. In most cases, it’s best to consult a professional to determine which type of hardware will best suit your particular situation.

Why Should I Secure My HVAC System?

In addition to helping protect your home against earthquakes and other natural disasters, properly installed and secured HVAC systems can also help reduce energy costs.

If a system isn’t firmly attached, air leaks can occur around loose joints or gaps, leading to higher energy bills due to lost air—air that needs to be replaced by running fans longer than necessary or running extra cycles on your furnace or air conditioner.

The cost savings from having a properly secured system are significant enough that many homeowners install seismic-rated anchors even if they don’t live in areas known for earthquakes or other natural disasters.

Evergreen Seismic Provides Award-Winning Earthquake and Seismic Fastening

Evergreen Seismic is a leader in earthquake and seismic fastening solutions near Kenmore, proudly providing award-winning products to help maintain the safety of your building. Their comprehensive line of seismic fastening products is designed for both new construction and retrofit applications. Learn how we can keep your property safe—contact us today for your free consultation!

Earthquakes can tremendously damage Seattle homes and businesses while also causing life-threatening situations. That’s why homeowners, business owners, and contractors must stay updated on the newest advances in earthquake and seismic fastening systems. Let’s look at some of the latest advances available for improving seismic protection in your home or business. 

Earthquake Resistant Bolts 

Installing earthquake-resistant bolts is one of the most widely used methods for strengthening a structure during an earthquake. These bolts are designed to absorb shocks from seismic waves and keep your building intact. 

They are made up of two parts—the head, a thick metal plate attached to the wall, and the body, which consists of two plates connected with large nuts and washers. Earthquake-resistant bolts come in various sizes and can be customized to fit any application. 

Seismic Isolation Systems 

Seismic isolation systems are another way of providing additional protection against earthquakes. These systems work by isolating a structure from ground movements during an earthquake. 

This isolation reduces the amount of energy transmitted through the structure during a seismic event, thus reducing damage and potential loss of life due to the collapse or destruction of the building’s foundation system. Seismic isolation systems can be installed either before or after construction has begun on a building, depending on its location and design needs.

Base Isolation System 

The base isolation system is one type of seismic isolation system that has gained popularity due to its ability to provide more effective protection against earthquakes than other methods, such as structural braces or friction pendulums. 

The base isolation system works by separating a structure’s main support columns from its foundations using flexible bearings that allow vertical movement but restrict horizontal movement between them during an earthquake.

This reduces strain on both the foundation and main support columns while still allowing them to move independently during an earthquake without compromising structural integrity or stability. 

Earthquake and seismic fastening systems are essential for protecting your Seattle home or business from potential damage caused by seismic activity. By staying informed about the latest technological advances, you can ensure that your home or business will be protected against even the strongest earthquakes imaginable! Contact Evergreen Seismic today to learn how you can stay protected!

Earthquakes are major natural disasters that can cause considerable damage if unprepared. It is important to understand the appropriate safety precautions for earthquake preparedness, especially for those living near Shoreline. These include creating an emergency kit and knowing how to shut off your earthquake and seismic gas shut-off valves.

Here are some tips on staying safe during an earthquake:

Creating an Emergency Kit 

The first step in preparing for an earthquake is having an emergency kit. This should include items like food, water, a flashlight with extra batteries, any necessary medications, a first aid kit, and other items that you may need in an emergency.

It’s also important to have copies of all essential documents like birth certificates, insurance policies, and other personal items in case they get damaged or lost due to the earthquake. Every household should have a designated safe place where everyone can go until the shaking stops. Once the shaking subsides, it is then safe to evacuate the area if needed. 

Shutting off Your Gas Main 

In addition to having an emergency kit ready, it is also necessary to know how to shut off your gas main in case of a natural disaster like an earthquake. Shutting off your gas main will depend on whether you have manual or automatic valves installed in your home or business. If you have manual valves installed (often referred to as “gate valves”), these must be turned by hand using either a flathead screwdriver or an adjustable wrench. 

To turn them off completely, turn the valve clockwise until it stops turning; this ensures that no more gas will flow into your home or business from the main line outside your property. If you have installed automatic valves (often called “ball valves”), they can be turned off remotely from inside your home or business by pressing a button or switch near the valve. 

Earthquakes can cause significant destruction if you are not adequately prepared beforehand. Taking steps such as creating an emergency kit and learning how to shut off your earthquake and seismic gas shut-off valves can help ensure that you stay safe during a disastrous event. Contact Evergreen Seismic today and take the correct precautionary measures before disaster strikes! You can significantly reduce earthquake risks near Shoreline and protect yourself and your family members from harm’s way! Get in touch today to learn more about our seismic services!

In light of recent events in Seattle, the importance of seismic retrofitting specialists has come into focus for most residents. Seismic retrofitting is the process of strengthening a building or structure to withstand an earthquake better.

This is done by assessing the vulnerability of the building and making changes to the foundation, framing, and/or walls to make the structure more stable and less likely to collapse.

Seismic retrofitting is an important consideration for any business or homeowner in an earthquake-prone area. Though the upfront cost of retrofitting can be significant, it is nothing compared to rebuilding after a disaster. 

In addition to the financial considerations, there is also a very real human cost to consider. A collapsed building can result in serious injuries or even loss of life. By retrofitting your building now, you can help protect your employees, customers, and family in the event of an earthquake.

How Seismic Retrofitting Is Done

There are several ways to retrofit a building, depending on the structure’s specific needs. The most common methods include the following:

    Foundation bolting: This involves attaching the home’s frame to its foundation with large bolts or steel plates. This helps to prevent the frame from shifting during an earthquake and collapsing. 

    Bracing cripple walls: Cripple walls are short walls that run along the perimeter of a home between the foundation and the first-floor framing. These walls can be strengthened by adding plywood or sheathing along their length. This helps to prevent them from buckling during an earthquake. 

    Adding sway bracing: Sway bracing helps to stabilize a building by connecting the roof rafters to the wall studs. This provides additional support that helps keep the building from swaying during an earthquake. 

    Reinforcing attic and garage doors: Attic and garage doors are often overlooked when it comes to seismic retrofitting, but they can be one of the weakest points in a building’s structure.

By reinforcing these doors with additional bracing, you can help prevent them from flying open during an earthquake and causing damage to the rest of the building. 

Evergreen Seismic Has the Seismic Solutions

Don’t take chances when protecting your home or business from earthquakes—use Evergreen Seismic for all your seismic retrofitting needs in Seattle, WA! We’re the leading seismic retrofitting specialists in the area and have customer reviews to back it up. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

As a homeowner, it’s essential to be aware of the structural integrity of your home—especially if you live in an area prone to earthquakes like Monroe. One way to ensure that your home can withstand an earthquake is to retrofit it by a specialist. But how do earthquake retrofitting specialists access the structural integrity of older homes? Let’s take a look:

How Earthquake Retrofitting Specialists Assess Foundations

One of the ways that earthquake retrofitting specialists access structural integrity is by looking at a home’s foundation. The foundation is one of the most important parts of a house and is also one of the most vulnerable to damage during an earthquake. 

To assess the condition of a foundation, specialists will often use a technique called ground penetrating radar. This allows them to see beneath the ground surface and identify areas where the foundation may be weak or cracked.

How Earthquake Retrofitting Specialists Assess Framing

Another way earthquake retrofitting specialists access structural integrity is by looking at the framing of a house. Framing is responsible for supporting the weight of the house, and it is also one of the most likely parts of a house to collapse during an earthquake. 

To assess the condition of framing, specialists will often use a technique called infra-red thermography. This allows them to identify areas where the framing may be weakened or damaged.

As Monroe’s most trusted earthquake retrofitting specialist, Evergreen Seismic deeply understands the structural challenges that older homes face. We apply this knowledge to every assessment, providing homeowners with a clear picture of their home’s seismic safety. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect your home from the next earthquake we face.

In earthquake-prone areas like Seattle, it’s crucial to take precautions to ensure that newly constructed structures can resist the tremors. One of the best ways to do this is by using earthquake and seismic fastening.

Builders must take the time to learn about the benefits of earthquake and seismic fastening to properly protect their homes and businesses.

Reduces Damage To The Building

Reduced building damage is one of the most essential benefits of earthquake and seismic fastening.

This is due to the fastening’s role in retaining the building’s parts and reducing the likelihood of accidental damage caused by their movement and/or collision. When it comes to post-earthquake repairs, this can be a huge money saver.

Prevents Collapses

Using earthquake and seismic fastening also helps ensure that structures stay standing in the case of an earthquake. This is because the fastening is vital in keeping the building’s various parts in place.

Without the fastening, the building could collapse in on itself, causing significant injury or death to everybody inside.

Reduces Noise Pollution

In addition to preventing collapse and damage, earthquake and seismic fastening helps reduce decibel levels. Noises like cracking and groaning can be produced by poorly secured buildings when they shift during an earthquake, which is obviously problematic.

This can be pretty unsettling when people attempt to stay calm during an emergency, but if the structures are securely fastened, there won’t be any shaking or noise.

Get the Latest Seismic Protection

When it comes to earthquake and seismic fastening in Seattle, there’s no company more qualified than Evergreen Seismic. We are also constantly innovating, and our products are regularly updated to ensure they meet the latest building codes and standards. Evergreen Seismic is the obvious choice if you’re looking for the best possible earthquake and seismic protection. Contact us today to learn more!

Earthquakes are a fact of life in King County. While most quakes are minor and cause little or no damage, the potential for a significant earthquake is always there. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared. Here are some tips on staying safe during an earthquake and adequately utilizing your earthquake and seismic gas shutoff valves.

During an Earthquake

If you’re inside when an earthquake hits, you should first drop to the ground and take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture. If there’s nothing nearby that you can use for cover, get down low and protect your head and neck with your hands and arms. Once you’re in a safe position, hold on until the shaking stops.

If you’re outside, move away from buildings, power lines, and anything else that could fall on you. Once you’re in a safe spot, drop to the ground and assume the same position as if you were inside. Again, hold on until the shaking stops.

After an Earthquake

Once the shaking has stopped, check yourself for injuries and check on others who may need help. If you smell gas or see sparks or fires, evacuate immediately and don’t turn any lights on or off or use anything electrical until you’re well away from the source of the danger. Only return home when authorities say it’s safe to do so. 

Shutting Off Your Gas

If your home has suffered damage during an earthquake, your gas line may have been ruptured. If you smell gas or see sparks or flames coming from any appliances that use gas (stoves, water heaters, etc.), shut off your gas immediately. 

To do this, locate your home’s main shutoff valve—usually near the meter—and turn it to the “off” position. Once the valve is turned off, don’t turn it back on yourself; only a qualified professional should do that.

Evergreen Seismic is Washington’s Trusted Earthquake Specialist

There is no way to predict when an earthquake will occur. That’s why it’s crucial to have a gas shutoff valve before an earthquake hits. In an earthquake, this will cut off your home’s gas supply, protecting you from potential explosions and flames.

With years of experience, Evergreen Seismic is a leading provider of earthquake and seismic gas shutoff valves in King County. We offer a wide range of products to suit all budgets and requirements, and our team of experts is always on hand to provide advice and support. So if you’re looking for peace of mind in an earthquake, don’t hesitate to contact Evergreen Seismic today!

Do you live in an area that is at risk for earthquakes—like Seattle, WA? If so, your home may be at risk, too. Seismic retrofitting specialists can help make your home safer in the event of an earthquake by reinforcing its structure. Unfortunately, many homeowners are unaware of the dangers of seismically unsafe buildings. 

Dangers of Seismically Unsafe Buildings

There are many dangers associated with seismically unsafe buildings. First and foremost, these buildings are at a higher risk of collapsing during an earthquake. This can lead to serious injuries or even death for those inside the building. In addition, seismically unsafe buildings can cause damage to neighboring structures, and they can pose a danger to rescue personnel. 

Of course, the best way to protect against these dangers is to prevent them from happening in the first place. That’s where seismic retrofitting comes in—the process of reinforcing a building’s structure to make it better able to withstand the forces of an earthquake. This can be done by adding bracing or shear walls, installing foundation bolts, or increasing the size of floor and roof joists.

Why Seismic Retrofitting Specialists Are in Demand

The demand for seismic retrofitting specialists has increased significantly in recent years as more and more people have become aware of the dangers posed by unsafe buildings. Seismic retrofitting is not something that can be done by just anyone; it requires special training and skills.

How You Can Ensure Your Building Is Safe

If you’re responsible for a building, there are steps you can take to make sure it is safe in case of an earthquake. The first step is to have it inspected by a qualified engineer to determine whether it meets current seismic safety standards. 

If it doesn’t, retrofitting may be necessary. It’s important to note that retrofitting should only be done by qualified professionals; attempting to do it yourself could actually make the situation worse.

Evergreen Seismic Knows the Dangers of Unsafe Buildings

Earthquakes are a very real danger in many parts of the world, especially in Seattle, WA, and it’s crucial to be prepared in the event of one. Unfortunately, many buildings are not up to code and could collapse during an earthquake, putting lives at risk. Our seismic retrofitting specialists can strengthen your structure and make it much safer in an earthquake. Contact Evergreen Seismic today to learn more about our services and how we can help protect your property from the dangers of earthquakes.