"Do I Really Need a Soft-Story Retrofit?" Yes — Here’s Why.
- Isela
- Sep 2
- 2 min read
If you're asking yourself this question, you're not alone. Many property owners wonder whether a soft-story retrofit is truly necessary, especially if their building has been standing for decades without issue. But the truth is, in earthquake-prone areas like Southern California, the question isn’t if you need a retrofit — it’s when.
What Is a Soft-Story Building, and Why Is It Vulnerable?
A soft-story building is typically a multi-story structure with a weaker or more flexible ground floor. Common examples include apartment buildings with tuck-under parking, large glass storefronts, or open office spaces on the lower level. These buildings lack the shear walls or structural reinforcements that help absorb the lateral forces of an earthquake.
When the ground shakes, the weakest floor — often the ground level — takes the brunt of the movement. Without retrofitting, these buildings are at serious risk of partial or total collapse.
What Does a Retrofit Actually Do?
Take a look at the images in this post — our team at Sinai Construction is shown installing rebar cages, one of several key elements in a proper soft-story retrofit. These cages help strengthen the building’s frame by redistributing seismic forces throughout the structure. Along with added steel frames, shear walls, and reinforced foundations, these upgrades turn your vulnerable structure into one far better equipped to handle the next big quake.
Signs Your Building Might Need a Retrofit:
Tuck-under parking without visible reinforcements
Open glass-front commercial spaces on the lower floors
Lower-level offices divided by non-structural partitions (e.g., glass walls)
Peace of Mind Is Priceless
Beyond complying with city retrofit ordinances, a soft-story retrofit protects your investment, your tenants, and your peace of mind. Earthquakes are unpredictable — but being prepared isn’t.
Ready to Begin Your Soft-Story Retrofit Journey? Request an inspection today and let Sinai Construction help you fortify your building from the ground up.
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