Anchor and Bolt Stem Wall Foundations to Protect from Earthquake Shaking

03/24/2023

Why do they matter?

Strong foundations keep your house stable during earthquakes by resisting seismic forces that pass underneath it. A house with strong wall-to-foundation anchorage will help prevent your home from sliding or moving during an earthquake.

Your strong home foundation is one of the essential parts of your resilient home. 

What do I need to know?

• A house with a stem wall foundation has a wood-framed first floor on a raised concrete perimeter made from reinforced masonry (CMU or cinder blocks).
• You can anchor and reinforce a stem wall foundation using foundation bolts or foundation plates.

Where do I start?

• Consult your contractor or professional engineer when considering earthquake retrofitting options for your existing home.

More Resources:

FLASH. Resilient Design Guide: Concrete Construction Edition