And because they are newer, the single-family homes in Ridgecrest lacked the vulnerability of many Southern California and Bay Area pre-1980 wood-frame houses built with a handful of steps above the ground. Sharp shaking can snap the wood supports connecting such homes to their foundations. A retrofit to brace and bolt the structure can cost several thousands of dollars — but repairing the problem after a quake can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Source: Ridgecrest earthquake mystery: Why so little destruction from huge temblors? – Los Angeles Times
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Now that’s an interesting factoid and something property owners would be well advised to remedy. Wonder if their property insurance rates reflect this risk? Be dumb if the insurance companies don’t action that item!
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