Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit
Walter P Moore's Principals have performed structural and nonstructural seismic evaluations on over 200 buildings for government and institutional clients. Often these assignments consist of evaluating large groups of buildings on multiple sites including offices, laboratories, civic buildings, schools, recreation facilities, hospitals, warehouses, etc. Frequently these evaluations are a precursor to developing seismic strengthening construction documents. These evaluations have included all types of building structural systems including steel, concrete, masonry, and wood framed structures, including historic buildings.
Walter P Moore uses the most current seismic evaluation methodology available (currently ASCE 31-03) and applies lessons learned through studying earthquake damage of similar building types. Seismic evaluation studies are tailored to each client's specific needs and the seismic performance goals for their buildings. Seismic evaluation criteria appropriate to the seismic performance goal are then selected and applied in the assessment. The firm is committed to preparing well-organized seismic evaluation reports complete with detailed graphics and thorough explanations which can be understood by laypersons. Where the degree of uncertainty in the strength and reliability of existing structural materials significantly impacts the outcome of the evaluation, Walter P Moore implements a materials testing program to validate in-situ material strengths.
Seismic deficiencies can be categorized into life safety, continuous operation or collapse prevention, depending on the desired performance objective. Strengthening measures can then be prioritized for implementation relative to the severity of the hazards and the owner's capital improvement program.
Walter P Moore Principals are also experienced in the development of seismic retrofit solutions for existing and historic buildings, saving money, time, and minimizing disruption to building occupants. They are experienced in the seismic assessment and retrofit of older structural systems and cladding, including development of seismic strengthening schemes which are sensitive to historic features.
Walter P Moore Principals are also experienced in utilizing performance-based seismic design concepts using the methodologies in ASCE 41-06. In many cases, Performance Based Design has led to a more logical and practical design solution than otherwise would have been achieved. In all cases, it has led to better understanding by both the client and the design team of the building's likely performance in the design seismic event.
Examples of innovative solutions implemented are center coring of unreinforced masonry walls; FRP fiber wrap; exterior buttresses; and integrated shear walls. The retrofit of the historic Vallejo Adobe at Petaluma State Park, utilized strategically placed interior steel moment frames and wood diaphragm strengthening, preserving the historic adobe walls. |
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Petaluma State Park Adobe *
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