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FAQs for earthquake protection service projects in Albany, NY

A seismic retrofit helps stop a home from sliding off its foundation during an earthquake. Seismic retrofits also reinforce walls, ceilings, and chimneys to minimize damage. To complete your home’s earthquake retrofit, you can use several methods independently or together, depending on your home’s condition and architecture, such as bolting foundations, bracing foundations with a cripple wall, reinforcing walls and chimneys, and adding an automatic seismic gas shutoff valve.

If your house was built before 1980 in an earthquake-prone area, schedule a retrofit as soon as possible. Building codes didn’t require modern bracing and bolting until the early ’80s, so older structures are more likely to slide off their foundations. Even newer homes benefit from a pro inspection to confirm anchors, shear walls, and gas shut-off valves meet current standards. Spending on a retrofit today can spare you costly repairs after a major quake.

To determine if your house is bolted to its foundation, you should inspect the area underneath your home for visible bolts or metal foundation plates. Observing bolts extending through the sill plate or seeing metal connectors securing the structure confirms a proper retrofit installation. If you are uncertain or the area is difficult to access, hiring a qualified home inspector will ensure a reliable assessment of your home’s anchoring system.

A solid retrofit can help your house withstand earthquakes up to a 7.0 magnitude without sliding or collapsing. By bolting the frame to the foundation and bracing cripple walls, you cut the risk of serious damage and injury. Insurers are aware of this, so many offer lower premiums on properly retrofitted homes. In short, it’s a safety upgrade that also protects your wallet.

The Albany, NY homeowners’ guide to earthquake protections services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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