Seismic Retrofits

Wall tie and brick anchor systems
   Wall tie systems are a relatively new procedure that is used to secure masonry walls and structures. It generally consists of a process in which an anchor is inserted into the masonry wall, securing the wall into the sub straight, whatever that may be. There are varying methods by which this is done, ranging from drilling holes into the wall and inserting epoxy anchored through bolts, to inserting "cork screw" like ties into the wall with special tools.
   In addition, on rebuild situations, there are number of ways that a wall can be built that meets or exceeds current code requirements for earthquake zones. The key is tying the new work to the old in order to strengthen the work that is not being rebuilt. We have a specialist on staff that is very familiar with the various ways that a structure can be rebuilt, having "cut his teeth" on the seismic rebuild in California after the devastating quakes that state has endured over the past 10-15 years.