Seismic Retrofit & Earthquake Strengthening

Seismic retrofit of foundations involves adding capacity (vertical, lateral, or both) to existing foundation systems that were designed to older, less stringent seismic codes. Common approaches include installing micropiles through existing footings to increase overturning resistance, adding new drilled shafts connected by grade beams to supplement existing foundations, improving liquefiable soils beneath foundations through ground treatment, and strengthening foundation-to-superstructure connections. Retrofit is driven by updated building codes, mandatory retrofit ordinances (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle), and voluntary risk reduction by building owners. The deep foundation industry provides critical expertise for making existing buildings earthquake-resilient.

Common Foundation Methods

Industries Served