News
Seismic and Lateral Load Retrofits
Seismic and Lateral Load Retrofits
Shear Wall Anchoring Methods for Existing Homes
Base Isolator Installation Considerations for Light Buildings
Anchor Bolt Upgrades to Resist Uplift Forces
Calculating Lateral Drift Limits in Residential Retrofits
Importance of Stem Wall Reinforcement in Seismic Zones
Using Strongback Bracing to Reduce Wall Buckling
Evaluating Soil Liquefaction Hazards Before Retrofit Planning
Post Installation Testing of Seismic Anchors
Permit Requirements for Structural Retrofit Projects
Cost Factors in Selecting a Seismic Upgrade Strategy
Common Materials Used in Lateral Load Hardware
Routine Maintenance Checks After a Seismic Retrofit
Corrosion and Durability Strategies for Piers
Corrosion and Durability Strategies for Piers
Hot Dip Galvanizing Processes That Protect Steel Piers
Epoxy Powder Coating Thickness Guidelines
Assessing Soil Corrosivity Through Simple Tests
Designing Cathodic Protection for Foundation Piles
Impact of Groundwater Chemistry on Metal Longevity
Using Recycled Steel Without Compromising Strength
Monitoring Coating Integrity During Annual Inspections
Service Life Modeling for Ductile Iron Piers
Selecting Fasteners Compatible With Protective Coatings
Environmental Benefits of Durable Foundation Materials
Repair Options for Coating Damage Below Grade
Documentation Practices for Corrosion Control Measures
About Us
United Structural Systems of Illinois, Inc
Anchor Bolt Upgrades Prevent 90% of Foundation Failures During Seismic Events
May 24, 2025
Lets talk about anchor bolt upgrades and whether theyre worth the hassle and expense, especially when were thinking about earthquakes.. Were told these upgrades can prevent a whopping 90% of foundation failures during a seismic event.
Base Isolator Technology Now Affordable for Residential Buildings Under $500K
May 24, 2025
The concept of base isolation has long been a beacon of hope in the realm of earthquake engineering, primarily utilized in high-value structures like skyscrapers and hospitals.. However, recent advancements have brought this technology within reach of the average homeowner, particularly those looking at residential buildings under $500K.
California Homeowners Rush to Retrofit as New Seismic Regulations Take Effect
May 24, 2025
In the ever-evolving landscape of Californias seismic activity, homeowners are increasingly turning their attention to earthquake preparedness, driven by both necessity and new regulations.. As the state continues to grapple with the threat of significant earthquakes, future trends in earthquake preparedness are becoming more pronounced and sophisticated. One of the most noticeable trends is the rush among California homeowners to retrofit their homes.
Cost Analysis: Why Cheaper Seismic Upgrades Often Fail When It Matters Most
May 24, 2025
Investing in resilience through seismic upgrades is a crucial consideration for any community or property owner living in earthquake-prone regions.. When it comes to cost analysis, the allure of cheaper seismic upgrades can be strong, especially under budget constraints.
Maintenance Neglect After Retrofits Leaves Homeowners Vulnerable to Future Quakes
May 24, 2025
Okay, so youve finally retrofitted your home for earthquakes.. Good for you!
New Drift Limit Calculations Reveal Most Retrofits Are Inadequately Designed
May 24, 2025
The recent findings from new drift limit calculations have brought to light a significant issue within the realm of seismic retrofit design: most retrofits are inadequately designed.. This revelation underscores the urgent need for recommendations to enhance retrofit design standards, ensuring structures not only withstand but also perform optimally during seismic events. Firstly, it is imperative to revise the current design standards to incorporate these new drift limit calculations.
Permit Delays for Retrofit Projects Reach Crisis Point as Demand Surges
May 24, 2025
The future outlook for retrofit projects mired in permit delays paints a rather bleak picture, unless we see some serious shifts in approach.. Right now, the surge in demand, driven by everything from climate change awareness to energy efficiency incentives, is colliding head-on with permitting processes that are, frankly, stuck in the past.
Post-Installation Testing Reveals Critical Flaws in Popular Seismic Anchor Systems
May 24, 2025
The post-installation testing of popular seismic anchor systems has brought to light critical flaws that could compromise the safety and integrity of structures during seismic events.. Addressing these issues is paramount to ensure public safety and maintain the trust in engineering solutions.
Revolutionary Lateral Load Hardware Cuts Installation Time by Half
May 24, 2025
Okay, so youre looking at this new lateral load hardware, right?. Stuff that promises to chop installation time in half.
Shear Wall Anchoring Breakthrough Could Save Thousands of Homes in Next Major Earthquake
May 24, 2025
The recent breakthrough in shear wall anchoring technology has sparked a wave of optimism among experts and industry professionals, who believe this could be a game-changer in earthquake-prone regions.. This innovation promises to enhance the resilience of thousands of homes, potentially saving lives and reducing property damage during the next significant seismic event. Dr.
Soil Liquefaction Maps Force Retrofit Strategy Overhaul in Pacific Northwest
May 24, 2025
The Pacific Northwest, with its rich geological history and active tectonic setting, faces significant risks from soil liquefaction during seismic events.. As we look to the future, research and monitoring efforts are crucial in refining our understanding of this phenomenon and guiding force retrofit strategies.
Stem Wall Reinforcement Requirements Expanded to Include Moderate Seismic Zones
May 24, 2025
In recent years, the construction industry has seen a significant shift in how seismic risks are managed, particularly with the expansion of stem wall reinforcement requirements to include moderate seismic zones.. This adaptation is reflected in various case studies that demonstrate the implementation of new reinforcement standards designed to enhance building resilience against earthquakes. One notable case study involves a residential development project in a region previously classified as having low seismic activity but recently reclassified due to updated geological surveys indicating moderate risk.
Strongback Bracing Installation Errors Found in 60% of Recent Retrofit Inspections
May 24, 2025
In recent retrofit inspections, a concerning trend has emerged where approximately 60% of installations involving strongback bracing have been found to contain errors.. Strongback bracing is critical in enhancing the structural integrity of buildings, particularly in seismic retrofits, where its correct installation can mean the difference between safety and disaster.