Soft Story Retrofits Now Mandatory in Los Angeles

The City of Los Angeles recently passed an Ordinance requiring the retrofit of all wood-frame soft-story buildings. A typical Soft-Story building is a structure consisting of two or more stories located over a ground level with large openings, such as tuck under parking garages, or a commercial store front. Without proper strengthening, these building may be subjected to structural failure during and/or after an earthquake.

How to Protect a Soft Story Structure

The first step in any soft-story seismic retrofitting project is to analyze the structure and determine the best way to strengthen the building. One of our foundation experts will have to weigh several factors when deciding the best approach to the project. Not only do we have to ensure the property will meet the structural standards required of retrofitted buildings, but we also have to minimize the impact on the function and use of the building. As easy as it would be to reinforce buildings by filling their ground floor parking spaces with braces or walling over their picture windows, those are not the best options. Instead, at Julian Construction, we typically use a few different approaches to complete a soft-story seismic retrofit.

soft story retrofit

soft story retrofit

soft story retrofit

Julian Construction has done outstanding work on the soft story structures we have worked on together. Julian and his crew are very professional and are there to help expedite and keep the project on schedule and on budget. Really good team to work with and looking forward to doing many others with them!

Alexander, P.E.

Schedule a Free Inspection

If you own a soft-story structure, Julian Construction is offering a free inspection consultation to building owners. To schedule a free inspection with Julian Construction, please click the button below, or call us now at 877-407-3876. A representative will review the information you provide and contact you to schedule your inspection.

Julian Construction
2900 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90018
Toll Free: (877) 407-3876
Phone: (323) 733-3377
Fax: (323) 733-4477

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