Evaluation of Housing Performance and Seismic Design Implication in the Northridge Earthquake (June 1999, 13 p.)
In this study, the "experience" of conventional residential construction is evaluated with respect to the
performance of wall systems and the risks associated with earthquakes using a scientifically sound approach.
Major seismic events cause damage to lateral resisting wall systems in conventional wood-frame construction.
Therefore, understanding the performance of residential construction with respect to seismic hazards. The
objective of this report is to evaluate the actual performance of homes during the Northridge earthquake
using statistical data on key design factors such as construction characteristics and ground motions. The
current approach to seismic design is also evaluated by investigating the existence and strength of certain
cause-and-effect relationships that are believed to be fundamental to the science of seismic design. The intent
of this paper is to approach the experience of the Northridge Earthquake using a scientifically sound
methodology to improve the understanding of key design factors. The findings are particularly valuable in
that they based on a statistically representative sample of the housing stock and its performance during the
Northridge Earthquake.
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