JulianConstruction.com: House Leveling Tips

By Julian De La Torre

At some point, your home’s foundation may need to be repaired. Houses settle over time, causing floors to slope and many other problems. Having trouble opening and closing windows? Your foundation may have settled too far into the soil, or settled unevenly. Other signs include wall cracks, sticking doors, floor bumps or squeaky floors or a house that looks “uneven” from the outside. Walls can start to bow or lean, and gaps can appear around doors and windows.

Settlement can be caused by more than just the age of the house. Sometimes homes are built on soil that hasn’t been compacted properly. Soil can also get wet, causing it to expand. When it dries, it will shrink.

Excessive settlement can occur in both cases, which can further damage a foundation. Your foundation can also be harmed by poor drainage and plumbing leaks.

When a floor is sloping, it can eventually slide off the foundation, especially during an earthquake.

A foundation repair expert is the best person to talk to about foundation issues, especially if you are seeing signs of settlement. There are many ways to repair a foundation. An experienced foundation expert will inspect your property to determine what is causing the situation and can fix any problems.
House leveling is one of the most popular methods of foundation repair. The leveling begins by inserting beams under your home that are supported by hydraulic jacks. Different sizes of jacks will be used to slowly raise the foundation. After the house has been leveled, piers are added to maintain the new height of the floors. The piers are placed directly into the soil for added support.

During the process, any damaged or rotten beams will need to be removed.

Helical piers are typically used to level a house. They can be used in all types of soil, are quickly installed and will have a minimal impact on your landscape. They can also be used in places where there is a high water table.

An important part of house leveling is knowing where to lift the house. Also keep in mind that raising the floor will usually create quite a bit of noise. Many times it is better to level the house over a period of days or weeks, raising it a few inches at a time. This will help prevent drywall and plaster from cracking. The home’s size and weight will also determine how long the project takes.

If house leveling isn’t done right, it can cause additional damage to your home. The structure of the house can weaken, windows will start breaking and large cracks can appear.

House leveling can help you avoid a complement foundation replacement, which can be expensive.

The best way to prevent costly repairs is to stay alert to problems and get them fixed as soon as possible. Ask a foundation contractor or house leveling contractors to check your home for foundation damage at least once a year. Get a thorough inspection both inside and out. Taking quick action on any issues can minimize repair expenses and keep you and your family safe.

Julian De La Torre, expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, repair & house leveling (Los Angeles) and founder of Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with engineering firms & local departments of building & safety. The company has done more home foundation repair (Los Angeles) than any other company in the area over the last five years (http://julianconstruction.com/about/ ). Julian Construction owns its own company and is a "no middlemen" model--no salesmen or subcontractors--you get the principals of the company & its workers under your home. See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

Should You Replace or Repair Your Foundation?

Los Angeles Foundation Contractor Gives Tips on Deciding to Repair or Replace

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/), a foundation construction and foundation repair company in Southern California, shares information on foundation problems and gives tips on deciding between repairable damage and foundations needing replacement.

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated “It is important to note that in homes where the owners neglected signs of foundation problems, they are more likely to need full foundation replacement later on. Homes which have undergone needed foundation repairs have most often avoided needing full foundation replacement.”

“Replacing a foundation can be a complicated and involved process depending on the size of the structure, its location and the extent of the damage. Whenever possible, it is preferable to repair foundation damage instead of replacing the whole foundation. Repair is not always possible if the damage has gone unchecked for a long time and become extensive.”

Fully understanding the cause of your foundation problem is the first step. There are many reasons why foundations fail. Bad design, poor soil conditions and moisture issues are some of the more common causes of foundation instability and collapse.

De La Tore stated “Examples of an improperly designed foundation include inadequate support and reinforcement, cement that hasn’t been cured correctly and a foundation that is too thin. Poor soil conditions typically involve soil that expands when wet and contracts when dry. Plumbing leaks and inadequate drainage can also create havoc with a foundation. Whether the problem is design, soil or moisture, the result will be foundation settlement. Indicators of settlement include wall cracks and sloping floors, as well as doors and windows that won’t open or close properly.”

“Replacing a foundation is a worst-case scenario when it comes to foundation damage. Regular home inspections will often uncover foundation problems before they become serious. Correcting these issues early-on can save you the time and expense of a full foundation replacement. If you have any concerns about your current foundation, contact a knowledgeable foundation contractor and request a free inspection. The sooner you start any necessary repairs, the better.”

“It is a positive thing to know that with these different foundation problems, each has a different way of recognizing it. When you know that, you can be more alert to the problem, and you are more knowledgeable when it occurs as to what is happening. You know when a problem is serious or not, because different cracks will tell you what kind of foundation problem you are looking at. And a trained foundation specialist will be able to spot the source of the problem right away so it can be completely handled,” concluded De La Torre.

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, http://www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Cold Weather, Foundation Problems, and You

Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com), a foundation repair and construction company in Los Angeles, explains some of the home foundation problems that can arise from cold weather, and what you can do about it.

There are a number of foundation problems that can crop up when the mercury dips. Here are a few you can look out for to help prevent problems from forming and recognize any that already have.

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated “Cold weather can cause your foundation to crack, even if the temperature is above freezing. Damage can be caused by temperatures as high as 40 degrees if it stays that cold for three or more days. Cracks in your home’s foundation can let water in, and water is the most damaging element to a foundation. If moisture gets into your foundation it can cause more cracks and many other types of damage.”

“Winter rains will also cause the soil to expand. The expansion underneath your foundation can propel a foundation upwards, which is called heave. If your home is built on soil that retains a lot of water, the damage that soil expansion can cause to your home can be extensive. If frost develops in the soil, it will increase its volume, which can also heave the foundation. When the frost thaws, suction is created that draws in more water. Constant freezing and thawing creates uneven foundation pressure as well as foundation shifts.”

“Take a walk around your house and check for cracks in drywall, cracking and or peeling paint and wallpaper, gaps between floors and walls, gaps in door or window frames, and doors that are sagging and sticking in their frames. If you find any of the above you should schedule an appointment with a foundation repair specialist to check for foundation issues that could lead to trouble.”

“It is a positive thing to know that with these different foundation problems, each has a different way to recognize it. When you know that, you can be more alert to the problem, and you are more knowledgeable when it occurs as to what is happening. You know when a problem is serious or not, because different cracks will tell you what kind of foundation problem you are looking at. And a trained foundation specialist will be able to spot the source of the problem right away so it can be completely handled,” concluded De La Torre.

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, http://www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Julian Construction Offers Soft-Story Retrofitting in Los Angeles

Los Angeles Makes Soft Story Retrofitting Mandatory for Wood-Frame Structures

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://www.julianconstruction.com/), a foundation construction and foundation repair company in the Los Angeles area, is now offering soft-story building retrofitting, which is now mandatory for wood-frame soft story buildings within the city of Los Angeles.

A soft-story building is a multi-story structure where the ground floor has unsupported floors above it, due to a wide front window or other wide section of the second floor with no supporting beam under it. The most common type of soft-story building is an apartment building built with the second story over an open parking area. Other types include retail businesses with large windows, as well as multi-level commercial structures with floors that have large spaces, windows and doors. Soft-story buildings are much more likely to collapse during an earthquake, and so are especially dangerous in areas of high seismic activity like Los Angeles.

The City of Los Angeles recently passed an Ordinance requiring the retrofit of all wood-frame Soft-Story buildings

If you own a soft-story building- especially an older wood-frame building, contact a local construction company to schedule an inspection consultation. The structural stability of your building and the safety of its occupants and users is extremely important, especially in areas of high seismic activity like Los Angeles.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “No two soft-story retrofitting projects are the same and so there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Ideally, we consider several factors to determine the best way to approach the project to get the building to meet the structural standards of retrofitted soft-story buildings, while also having a minimal impact on the function and use of the building. We see these kinds of soft story buildings every day. Fortunately much more is known about the risks involved with this type of design now, so buildings today are built much more securely. But with older buildings, it is important to know the risks involved with soft story structural issues.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

JulianConstruction.com: Bolting Mudsills to a Cement Foundation

By Julian De La Torre

Do you know if your house is bolted to the foundation? Bolting is a type of seismic retrofitting that secures a home’s mudsill to its concrete foundation. Mudsill is the horizontal wood that sits on top of the foundation. It is the bottom of an exterior wall that connects the frame of the house to the footing.

Mudsills that aren’t connected to the foundation (or poorly connected) will start to move during a quake, along with the walls they are attached to. This motion can cause gas lines to break and electrical wires to pull out. Floors can also be damaged. If the shaking is severe, the entire building may end up collapsing.

When the mudsill is properly bolted to the concrete, it prevents the home from slipping and sliding during seismic activity.

Bolting a home to its foundation became a Uniform Building Code requirement in 1949. However, it took almost 10 years for local government to implement the code. Consequently, most homes built before 1960 have not been bolted to their foundations. Without bolting, an earthquake can shake the home off of its foundation.

You can check to see if your home’s mudsill has been bolted by going into your crawl space or basement and looking for thick bolts across the top of the sill. You should see bolts every 4 to 6 feet. There should also be steel anchor plates connecting the edge of the sill to the foundation’s side.

If you find any rusted bolts, they will need to be replaced. Rusted bolts are more common in moisture-prone areas.

Also look for recessed bolts. When the foundation is poured and bolts aren’t sticking up high enough, the mudsill around the bolt needs to be chiseled to get the nut on. This can make it difficult to tighten the nuts and virtually impossible for any anchor plates to be installed. Recessed bolts should be replaced.

An important point regarding bolting is the depth of penetration into the concrete. There are minimum and standard depth requirements depending on the type of anchor bolts being used.
Replacing bolts can be difficult because of the tight space. A foundation repair expert will know which bolts need to be replaced in addition to having all of the tools that will be needed to get the job done right.

Bolting is only one part of the retrofitting process. Even homes that are bolted can suffer severe damage from a quake if the cripple walls haven’t been braced properly. The cripple wall is the short wall between the first floor and the foundation. Cripple walls need reinforcement with sturdy materials like plywood. Stucco and wood siding does not provide enough support for the walls.

The best way to find out if your home is properly bolted, is to contact a foundation contractor, a specialist in this area, and ask for a free inspection. Getting help from a foundation repair (Los Angeles) expert will save you time, money and potential damage from the next big quake.


Julian De La Torre, expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, repair & house bolting (Los Angeles) and founder of Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with engineering firms & local departments of building & safety. The company has done more home foundation repair (Los Angeles) than any other company in the area over the last five years (http://julianconstruction.com/about/ ). Julian Construction owns its own company and is a "no middlemen" model--no salesmen or subcontractors--you get the principals of the company & its workers under your home. See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

Recognizing Signs of Roof Damage

Los Angeles Contractor Shares Warning Signs of Roof Damage and What You Can Do About It.

Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) a foundation repair and construction company in Los Angeles, has compiled a checklist that you can use to tell if you have any roof damage issues. If you notice any of the items mentioned, you should contact a roofing contractor to schedule an inspection.

Cold weather brings with it an increase in risk factors for roof damage including; rain, falling leaves, and freezing temperatures. The maintenance and regular inspection of your roof will help protect against roof leaks and their effects, such as dry rot and mold.
Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Missing, loose, or warped roof tiles or shingles which leave the underlying roof materials exposed and prone to damage
• Leaks around chimneys, skylights, or air vents, which can be an indication of damaged or improperly installed flashing.
• Clogged gutters which can cause water damage from overflow
• Roof leaks are especially serious and should be immediately addressed to prevent dry rot and mold.

If you notice any of the above signs of roof damage, call a qualified construction company near you to perform roof inspections and whatever type of roof repair you may need. Don’t worry if the weather has already gotten overcast and rainy, roofs can be repaired or replaced at any time, even in wet weather.

Julian De La Torre of Julian Construction, stated: “Having your roof regularly inspected by a professional contractor is an important part of the home maintenance process. When roof problems are detected early, not only will the repairs usually be less costly, it can help prevent other types of damage to your home. Roof repairs can be done very easily at any time of the year when overseen by a competent construction company.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, http://www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

How to Tell If Your Foundation is in Need of Repairs

Los Angeles Foundation Contractor shares warning signs of foundation damage

Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) a foundation repair and construction company in Los Angeles, has compiled a checklist that you can use to walk around your house with, to tell if you have any foundation damage issues. If you notice any of the items mentioned, you should contact a foundation contractor to schedule an inspection.

As a homeowner, it can be difficult to tell when something is wrong with your foundation, especially since the early warning signs can be subtle. However, a damaged foundation is very dangerous and it is important to have it inspected regularly to catch and repair damage before it has a chance to get worse.

• Doors and windows that have shifted and don’t open and close properly. This can be a sign that your foundation has settled.
• Cracks on the outside of your home- especially diagonal ones. If they are small it could be a cosmetic issue, but large cracks are often a sign of a larger problem.
• Nails that have popped out from the wall, indicating that the drywall may be bowing inward or outward.
• Sloping floors. If the floor is gradually sloping less than an inch across the whole foundation, it might not be an issue. However, if your floor has a height difference of more than an inch over 15-20 feet, it is more likely the foundation settling or shifting.
• Gaps between the caulking on windows and doors. This is usually caused by the foundation shifting.
• Patios that have pulled away from your home. This is a sure sign of a shifting or sinking foundation.
  Wallpaper that has wrinkled or creased. This can be caused by a sinking or shifting foundation, which in turn, causes the walls to shift.
• Sunken floors or foundation. If you notice the ground around your foundation sinking, you could have a big foundation issue on your hands, call for an inspection right away.

If you encounter any of the above problems, you don’t necessarily need to replace your foundation. It is often possible to repair smaller issues and cracks with a strap, epoxy injection or a pad known as an underpin, halting the damage and strengthening your foundation for a safer home.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “Keeping your home’s foundation in good repair is so important, it’s the first thing we look at when we go to a home with structural problems. And maintaining the foundation will prevent more serious problems from occurring in the future. Always get your home inspected on a regular basis. It’s important for the safety of your home.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about Los Angeles foundation repair on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Julian Construction Warns of the Dangers Of Poor Drainage and Cold, Wet Weather

Drainage Problems, Mold, and Foundation Cracks- Are You At Risk?

Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) a foundation repair and construction company in Los Angeles, is warning the public of some of the home foundation problems that can arise from wet weather, and what you can do about it.
As the weather gets cooler and wetter, the risk for indoor mold and foundation cracking increases. The maintenance and installation of proper drainage systems surrounding your home provide a safeguard against the effects of water accumulation and flooding during the rainy season.

Be on the look-out for signs of drainage problems, as a potential threat to the foundation of your home. There is a list below of indicators of drainage problems. If you encounter any of them on your property, contact an experienced foundation contractor near you for help resolving the issues.

 Water pooling in a yard
 Rainwater accumulating on a rooftop
 Moisture seeping into a house
 Foundation cracks
 Mold, mildew, or a damp musty smell

In addition to water damage that can be caused by any of the above problems (including drywall damage, mold, and mildew), foundation damage can also occur if the problem is not corrected early enough. When water seeps into the soil underneath a foundation, it can cause the soil to expand and lift the foundation, resulting in foundation cracks. When the soil dries, the foundation will settle.

Constant expansion and contraction will increase and worsen structural damage. Water can also create foundation cracks and make any existing fissures larger.

A qualified construction company can install a drainage system to avoid mold and foundation problems from poor drainage.

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, stated: “It’s vital to make sure that water is being drained away from your home properly. If it is not draining properly, and is pooling near the house, you are at risk of foundation damage. If you suspect you have a problem, get an experienced foundation expert out to inspect your home.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, http://www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

JulianConstruction.com: Common Types of Anchor Bolts Used in House Bolting

By Julian De La Torre

Over the years we have learned the effect seismic activity has on a building and how to minimize the impact of a quake.

Earthquakes can cause a building to slide, shift off of its foundation and overturn. They can also buckle cripple walls, causing them to collapse.

House bolting is also called foundation bolting, anchor bolting, or seismic retrofitting. The purpose of house bolting is to make the structure safer and prevent damage during an earthquake. The bolts strengthen the wood frame by connecting it securely to the foundation. The two types of bolts commonly used in house bolting are epoxy foundation bolts and expansion foundation bolts.

If you live in an older home, an epoxy-set foundation bolt will be your best option. Older homes tend to have weaker concrete. Epoxy bolts are longer than expansion foundation bolts, which means they must be inserted deeper into the concrete. The deeper insertion improves the bolt’s performance.

Epoxy bolts are also a good choice in locations where the motion of a quake can lift up the structure. Because of the length of the bolt, the chances of the wood frame pulling away from the concrete foundation is reduced.

Expansion foundation bolts are best used with foundation concrete that is in good shape, such as concrete in a new home or a new foundation in an older home. This is because the bolt requires “strong concrete” to be effective. The bolts can be used as long as they don’t crack the concrete.

Anchor bolts need to be installed with square plate washers. The washers create a sturdier and more secure connection to the foundation. Before square plate washers came into use, the bolts were secured with round washers. However, round washers did not have enough holding strength.

Sometimes other types of anchors may be necessary, depending on whether or not the home has cripple walls. Homes can also have a combination of cripple walls and places where the floor rests on the foundation.

To find out if your house needs bolting, go down into your home’s crawl space. The crawl space is the area between the foundation and the first floor. Find the sill plate, which is the board located on top of the foundation. Most but not all sill plates are made of lumber. The board runs horizontal to the vertical wall.

Inspect the sill plate for the head of anchor bolts. In most cases they will appear every four to six feet.
Many homes built during and after the late 1930’s will have some form of house bolting (Los Angeles and other earthquake-prone cities especially). Check to see if any existing bolts have become weak, or are set to far apart to provide the support needed in a quake.

Any work that gets done to strengthen the structure of your home needs to meet current standards. A foundation repair expert or foundation contractor should be consulted to determine if any existing bolting needs to be replaced, and the extent of any new bolting that may be necessary.


Julian De La Torre, expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, repair & house bolting and founder of Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures, working with engineering firms & local departments of building & safety. The company has done more home foundation repair work than any other company in the Los Angeles area over the last five years (http://julianconstruction.com/about/ ). Julian Construction owns its own company and is a "no middlemen" model--no salesmen or subcontractors--you get the principals of the company & its workers under your home. See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

New Video Explains Earthquake Retrofitting

Foundation Contractor Publishes Video on House Bolting and Earthquake Retrofitting

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and foundation repair company in Southern California, has released a new video explaining the earthquake retrofitting process. The video explains how earthquake retrofitting, also called house bolting, can make a home foundation more secure and safe during a potential earthquake.

Earthquake retrofitting has helped secure foundations for homeowners whose home structure would otherwise be potentially vulnerable to heavy damage in the event of an earthquake.

The new video on earthquake retrofitting was designed by Julian Construction. The video can be found on the company’s page dedicated to earthquake retrofitting and house bolting, where more data is presented on the process and what type of house bolting is needed for a particular home:
http://julianconstruction.com/services/earthquake-retrofitting-or-house-bolting/

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “This video is informational. In the industry we know the need for house bolting in homes that were built before this was common practice. But the general public needs to know, as this process is so vital to securing a home against earthquakes. Here in California the threat of earthquakes looms large. We have minor earthquakes almost daily, and the Big One is expected to be on the way. But by being well prepared for an earthquake, we could prevent billions of dollars worth of property damage and leave many families with their homes still standing. We hope the video provides useful information on this to people.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

California’s Next Big Earthquake Not What Expected

Experts Point To An Even Larger Earthquake Overdue to Hit Pacific Coast

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair company and general foundation contractors in Los Angeles, has been researching the upcoming earthquake predicted to hit the San Andreas fault, the “Big One”. What they’ve found is the approach of an even bigger quake, predicted to hit from an unsuspected source.

In a recent article, building safety inspection specialist Shawn Kyles stated: “You’ve probably seen more than a few stories about the ‘Big One’ - a magnitude 8.0 or greater earthquake that scientists predict will occur along the San Andreas Fault sometime in the future. Whether that future is an hour from now, next week or decades away is unknown...But scientists are now claiming that a quake along the lesser known Cascadia fault (technically called the Cascadia subduction zone) could be even deadlier.”

Much more is said about the previously unknown Cascadia fault quake, as well as San Andreas, in the full article: http://julianconstruction.com/julianconstruction-com-earthquake-forecast-big-and-bigger/

Mr Kyles does make a final statement to California residents on earthquake preparedness: “Part of that preparation includes earthquake retrofitting your home, especially if the house was built during or before the 1980s. Even a new house should be given a foundation inspection by experienced foundation contractors. Doing everything you can to improve the structural integrity of your home could end up saving lives when the ground begins to shake.”

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “We have to be prepared. We cannot stand by and let this happen. We know about it now, so all homeowners need to take action to be prepared. Securing your foundation will mean increased safety for your family in the event of an earthquake, so your home can stay standing.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

JulianConstruction.com: Does Your Foundation Need To Be Replaced?

By Shawn Kyles

Foundation problems become worse over time. Minor cracking from moisture or settlement can turn into large cracks and other foundation issues that make it difficult to open or close windows and doors. At some point, you may even notice walls starting to bulge or floors beginning to slope. Similar problems can occur if the foundation was poorly designed, or built on expansive soil.

When the damage becomes too severe, the entire structure will weaken and eventually collapse. If your home or commercial structure is located in an area where there is seismic activity, the risk of collapse is even greater. When a foundation is damaged, one good jolt could knock the entire building down.

Regular inspections and home foundation repair can keep your foundation in good shape. However, when a foundation isn’t properly maintained or signs of damage are ignored, the foundation may end up needing to be replaced.

Foundation replacement is no small task. You will not be able to live in your home while the work is being done.

To begin with, all of the building’s utilities will need to be turned off. This includes shutting down water and sewer lines. Next, the home will be lifted many feet above the ground in order to replace the cement slab and surrounding walls. A trench may need to be dug around the house in order to remove the walls. It may even be necessary to remove the first floor of the building.

If the soil under the foundation wasn’t properly compact, it will be dug out and replaced.
Once the new soil is put in, it will need to be compacted. After the compaction, a new cement foundation will be poured, which will take several days to cure. The building may also need to be reinforced with steel or other types of support. Concrete and/or concrete blocks will be used to replace foundation walls.

Before the house can be put back on its foundation, the trench around the building will be filled in and any underground utilities will be reconnected. When necessary, outside foundation walls will be waterproofed. The building may also need additional interior and exterior repairs before the job is considered finished.

Foundation replacement can be expensive and take weeks to complete. Both lifting the building and providing proper shoring during the project can be costly. Many times the shoring will require utilities to be relocated.

In older homes, particularly buildings with stone or brick foundation walls, a footing may need to be built for the new foundation.

Annual inspections by an experienced foundation repair company can help you avoid serious foundation and structural damage. A foundation contractor will look for signs of trouble in and around the building and provide recommendations on any needed repairs.

You should also make your own periodic inspections of the property. Never hesitate to contact a foundation repair professional if something doesn’t seem right. It could mean the difference between a simple repair job and foundation replacement.


Shawn Kyles, expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, repair & house bolting at Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures for building & safety and done more home foundation repair than anyone else (http://julianconstruction.com/about/). See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

Julian Construction Inc. Is Largest Foundation Repair Company in Greater LA

Foundation Construction Company Has Done Twice as Many Jobs in Last 5 Years as Nearest Competitor

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc. (http://www.julianconstruction.com) is celebrating the fact they have done more foundation repair jobs in the last 5 years than any other company in the metro Los Angeles area. In fact, the company has done almost twice as many jobs as their nearest competitor.

Julian Construction was founded in the year 2000 by Julian De La Torre, and the company focused on home foundation repair, foundation construction, earthquake retrofitting – also called house bolting, and floor leveling. De La Torre began doing earthquake retrofitting in the days before the Northridge earthquake of 1994, and his goal in founding Julian Construction was to ensure that L.A. area homeowners and commercial property owners are prepared in the event of future earthquake strikes. His partner, Shawn Kyles, has inspected over 16,500 structures over the course of his career.

Julian stated: “It’s great to know that we have done more jobs than any other foundation company in Los Angeles. But for us, what’s more important is knowing we are helping more homeowners and making more homes safer. And for the customer, it means more people have trusted us to work on their homes, and that you won’t find anyone in LA with more experience.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, http://www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Julian Construction Inc. Celebrates Their 15th Anniversary

Foundation Construction Company Reflects On Their Objectives Over The Last 15 Years

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc. (http://www.julianconstruction.com) celebrates their 15th anniversary this year in the foundation repair and foundation construction business. On this occasion they take a moment to look at their company objectives in these past 15 years.

Since its founding in the year 2000, Julian Construction has had as its basic focus the repair and construction of home foundations. Julian De La Torre, founder of the company, began doing earthquake retrofitting in the days before the Northridge earthquake of 1994, and his goal in founding Julian Construction was to ensure that L.A. area homeowners and commercial property owners are prepared in the event of future earthquake strikes. His partner, Shawn Kyles, has inspected over 16,500 structures over the course of his career.

Another of Julian’s objective is for their clients to not have to deal with a middle man, salesmen, or subcontractors. Their intention is that property owners can work directly with their company and thus can get the foundation services they need at an affordable price.

Julian stated: “It’s really great looking back at 15 years-worth of the people we have helped, making their homes more secure. I think the next ten years will be even better and we’ll be able to help even more people have peace of mind knowing their properties are as safe as possible.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, http://www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

JulianConstruction.com: Earthquake Forecast--Big and Bigger

By Shawn Kyles

You’ve probably seen more than a few stories about the “Big One”- a magnitude 8.0 or greater earthquake that scientists predict will occur along the San Andreas Fault sometime in the future. Whether that future is an hour from now, next week or decades away is unknown.

The San Andreas Fault runs through California and is approximately 800 miles long. It is the boundary between two of the planet’s tectonic plates, the Pacific plate and the North American plate. Tectonic plates, which are made up of the Earth’s crust and mantle, are in various degrees of motion across the planet. Their movement over time is generally unnoticeable, except in places where they meet.

The San Andreas Fault has three main sections. The southern section starts in Bombay Beach, CA. a small town in Imperial County south of Palm Desert that is 223 feet below sea level - the lowest community in America.

From Bombay Beach, the fault runs through the base of the San Bernardino Mountains, across the Cajon Pass in the Angeles National Forest, and along the San Gabriel Mountains to Parkfield in Monterey County and northwest of Bakersfield. This particular stretch of the fault can produce a quake of up to magnitude 8.1.

The central part of the fault runs from Parkfield to Hollister and the northern segment from Hollister (south of San Jose) to the Mendocino Triple Junction. The Mendocino Triple Junction is where the North American Plate and the Pacific Plate meet up with the Gorda plate.

Experts say that a major earthquake along the San Andreas Fault could last 15 times longer than the 1994 Northridge quake, cause thousands of deaths, tens of thousands of injuries and hundreds of billions of dollars in damage.

But scientists are now claiming that a quake along the lesser known Cascadia fault (technically called the Cascadia subduction zone) could be even deadlier.

The Cascadia fault is 620 miles long, stretching from Cape Mendocino, in northern California and west of Redding, to northern Vancouver Island. It separates the North America plate from the oceanic Juan de Fuca plate. Its name comes from the Cascade Range, a volcanic mountain range located along the same geographical area.

Earthquakes along the fault have been occurring approximately every 243 years. The Pacific Northwest is currently “past due” for a Cascadia fault quake by about 72 years. And that quake, when it happens, is expected to be an 8.0 to 9.2 magnitude seismic event, followed by a devastating tsunami.

According to Kenneth Murphy, a FEMA director for Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Alaska, “Our operating assumption is that everything west of Interstate 5 will be toast.”

With the Big One and Bigger One looming, earthquake preparedness and planning is vital for anyone who lives on the West Coast. Your neighborhood may not end up in a pile of smoldering debris, but you should anticipate a lengthy recovery period while communications are restored and roads are repaired.

Part of that preparation includes earthquake retrofitting your home, especially if the house was built during or before the 1980s. Even a new house should be given a foundation inspection by experienced foundation contractors. Doing everything you can to improve the structural integrity of your home could end up saving lives when the ground begins to shake.

JulianConstruction.com: Types of Drywall

by Shawn Kyles

For the past 50 years drywall has been a common type of material used in the construction of homes to make interior walls and ceilings. It covers insulation, wiring and the structure’s frame. It is also used to create separations in buildings requiring fire-rated materials.
The reason for drywall’s extensive usage and popularity is its low cost, ease of installation and durability.

Drywall is also known as wallboard, plasterboard, gypsum board and Sheetrock (a brand name). It is made of gypsum (powdered rock) plaster that has been pressed between two sheets of extremely thick paper.

Gypsum is a soft, fine-grained white mineral. In addition to drywall, it is used as a fertilizer and for blackboard chalk. Gypsum can even be made into blocks similar to concrete blocks, and mortar. In Asian cultures, it is a source of dietary calcium

Standard drywall sheets are 4’ x 8’. You can also purchase drywall that is 10 and 12 feet long. The drywall used for ceilings is 5/8 inch thick and the drywall used for walls is typically 1/2 inch thick. You can also purchase drywall that is 3/8 inch thick.

In addition to size and thickness variations, drywall can also be square edged, taper-edged, moisture resistant, soundproof, fire-resistant and foil-backed. Deciding what type of drywall to use will depend on your project.

Water-resistant drywall (greenboard) is needed in areas where there is moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or regions with a humid climate. In many cases, the greenboard will also need a waterproof membrane to prevent water penetration. Another option for areas exposed to water is cement board. A cement board is fiber reinforced cement. It does not have outward facing paper.

You can also buy drywall that is mold-resistant. Drywall that is mold resistant typically has paperless backing and a special coating to prevent mold.

Fire resistant drywall is for walls or ceilings that require a fire-rating beyond 20 minutes. To create this type of drywall, strands of fibers are added to the gypsum. This increases the ability of the drywall to withstand fire for a longer period of time.

If you are planning to install drywall in high traffic commercial areas, you may want to consider impact resistant drywall. This type of drywall is made by adding fibers to the gypsum as well as increasing the thickness of the paper.

Soundproof drywall (quiet rock) has viscoelastic polymers added to the gypsum, The polymers convert sound energy to heat energy.

You can even purchase lead-lined drywall for drywall jobs in areas such as x-ray rooms. Lead-lined drywall is made by adding 1/16” layer of lead between the gypsum and paper backing. The lead blocks the x-rays from penetrating the wall.

If your drywall job involves the use of veneer plaster, you will need blue board, a type of drywall covered with a special coating. The coating makes it easier for the plaster to adhere to the drywall.
When it comes to installing drywall, hire a general or foundation contractor. A professional will know what type of drywall is needed for your project. You will also have peace of mind knowing that the drywall was properly installed and can pass a foundation inspection.


Shawn Kyles, expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, repair & house bolting at Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures for building & safety and done more foundation repair than anyone else (http://julianconstruction.com/about/ ). See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

Foundation Problems Recognizable By Different Cracks

Different Foundation Cracks Indicate Several Different Structural Problems

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and general contractor construction company in the Los Angeles area, just released an article detailing many different types of foundation cracks and what each one indicates. Different foundation cracks are caused by conditions in the soil and structure and each has a specific cause. Shawn Kyles, structural safety inspection expert, wrote the article to help homeowners recognize these potentially dangerous foundation problems.

Mr. Kyles states: “When cracks appear in walls, it is often a sign of foundation problems or damage. Many times the problem is caused by foundation shrinkage, soil expansion or settlement. Earthquakes can cause cracking as well. Where the crack is occurring, its size and shape can tell you a lot about the problem. Knowing how to ‘read’ them can help you determine the seriousness of the situation and what action to take.”

The full text of the article can be found here: http://julianconstruction.com/julianconstruction-com-different-types-of-foundation-cracks/

The company strongly recommends that homeowners quickly address any of these signs of foundation damage. A competent foundation inspection by a trained professional can locate the cause of the problem and indicate the appropriate foundation repair.

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “It is a positive thing to know that with these different foundation problems, each has a different way to recognize it. When you know that, you can be more alert to the problem, and you are more knowledgeable when it occurs as to what is happening. You know when a problem is serious or not, because different cracks will tell you what kind of foundation problem you are looking at. And a trained foundation specialist will be able to spot the source of the problem right away so it can be completely handled.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Efforts to Proof California Homes Against Earthquakes Ongoing

Earthquake Retrofitting a Continuing and Large Scale Process for Homes in California

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation repair and construction and earthquake retrofitting specialist company in California, is joining with many different organizations and the Los Angeles Mayor in a concerted effort to bring California’s homes up to code and ready for the next big earthquake. The earthquake preparedness process ranges from small repairs of homes which need more modern earthquake reinforcement, to large repairs of office buildings which may be in great danger of collapse in the event of an earthquake.
The company urges all California homeowners and business owners to join in the process.

Shawn Kyles, Julian Construction’s building safety inspection expert, stated: “In California, considerable efforts are being made to ensure commercial and residential buildings are earthquake-proof. Even so, many structures are still not retrofitted. It’s important for anyone in California to know whether or not their home could withstand a large earthquake. Houses with no earthquake retrofitting can fall off the foundation or collapse when the ground starts to shake. Sometimes, damage can be severe enough to require the home be torn down.”

One such person joining in the effort to strengthen California homes is Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti, who made the following statement in December last year: “The time for retrofit is now. Complacency risks lives. One thing we can’t afford to do is wait.” The mayor announced his intentions for a city-wide earthquake retrofitting program here:
http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-earthquake-safety-retrofit-20141208-story.html

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “The need for earthquake retrofitting has been with us for some time. There are buildings which were built decades ago which are not up to current code, and sometimes we find modern buildings where the foundation was not done correctly. All of these need to be replaced. I’m very happy to see a large effort to handle all of California’s buildings. In a state like this, with how many earthquakes we get every year, we cannot let a home be at risk of collapse in an earthquake.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

JulianConstruction.com: Different Types of Foundation Cracks

by Shawn Kyles

When cracks appear in walls, it is often a sign of foundation problems or damage. Many times the problem is caused by foundation shrinkage, soil expansion or settlement. Earthquakes can cause cracking as well. Where the crack is occurring, its size and shape can tell you a lot about the problem. Knowing how to “read” them can help you determine the seriousness of the situation and what action to take.

It is not uncommon to find minor cracking in concrete foundations, possibly indicating a need for concrete foundation repair. This is because concrete shrinks as it cures. Curing is not just the result of water loss, it is also a chemical reaction. The amount of shrinkage that will occur depends on many factors, such as the type of concrete that was used, the temperature at the time of the pour and how much water was used.

These are usually thin, vertical cracks that appear randomly throughout the foundation. They can range in length from a couple of inches to the entire height of the wall. If the concrete was incorrectly or poorly mixed, the cracks will tend to be larger. The degree and characteristics of the cracking can also be influenced by the use (or lack) of steel reinforcements. Shrinkage cracking will typically stop once the concrete has been cured.

Foundation cracks occurring in an older building should be of more concern. In particular, be on the lookout for vertical wall cracks that become noticeably larger in a short period of time. Although the cracking may be the result of settlement, it can also be an indicator of more serious foundation problems. Cracks that are wider at the top than bottom can be dangerous as well, especially if you find them near the ends of a brick wall.

Generally, wall cracks that have a wider bottom than top are caused by settlement. If there is too much settlement, there may be underlying foundation issues that need to be addressed. Contact a seasoned foundation contractor if you have concerns about this kind of cracking, especially if they are appearing in a brick wall, to see if home foundation repair is needed.

Take note of any cracks that have a step-like pattern. These types of cracks can be caused by foundation settlement, as well as expanding and contracting soil or landscaping too close to the building.

Other causes of this kind of cracking can include:

Omitted footings
Frost heave
Shallow footings
Water problems
An inadequate backfill

Step cracks can often be seen outside as well as inside your home. You will want to have any cracks with this pattern inspected by a foundation repair (Los Angeles) expert.

Horizontal cracks in walls are often the most serious type of cracking. In most cases they can only be seen in crawl areas or a basement. Sometimes the cause of this type of cracking is expansive soil or improper backfilling. Either way, if you find horizontal cracks in either of those areas, immediately contact a foundation contractor, especially if the cracks are increasing in size over time.

Shawn Kyles, expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, repair & house bolting at Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures for building & safety (http://julianconstruction.com/about/ ). See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4

Earthquake Retrofitting A Must For Earthquake Preparation

Homeowners Urged to Retrofit Homes to Earthquake Preparedness Safety Standards

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and foundation repair company located in Los Angeles, has been continuing its campaign to raise awareness of home safety standards. Specifically, the company has been working to make homeowners aware of the necessary steps to keep their homes safe in the event of an earthquake, including earthquake retrofitting. The company has extensive experience with the procedures needed to address any structural issues which would cause damage in the event of an earthquake.

In a recent article on earthquake safety, Julian Construction’s safety and inspection expert Shawn Kyles stated: “There are ways to prevent potentially dangerous situations in a quake, like house bolting, which is anchoring the home to its foundation. Los Angeles and other So Cal city homes benefit from these procedures. And the chances of damage from an earthquake increase when there are any type of pre-existing foundation problems. If there is any chance your home has structural weaknesses, it’s a good idea to get a foundation inspection done by experienced foundation contractors before the next quake hits. Foundation issues can be addressed by a foundation repair expert who has an extensive history of work on homes in your area. Retrofitting is the best way to limit damage from an earthquake.”

Julian Construction has worked extensively in the field of home earthquake retrofitting to address structural issues in a home’s foundation. A home can be inspected if foundation problems are suspected to exist, or if the home’s foundation is many years old and has not been inspected. Data on the retrofitting procedure can be found here: http://julianconstruction.com/services/earthquake-retrofitting-or-house-bolting/

Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “We have been working and keeping up to date on how to retrofit a home so that you don’t have to. You shouldn’t have to worry about whether your home will be safe in the event of an earthquake. You should rest easy, knowing your home rests on a structurally sound foundation. We can inspect your home to find out what steps are needed to get it there.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Nepal Earthquake A Wake Up Call For Preparedness

Construction Company Calls For Earthquake Preparedness For Homeowners

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/) a foundation construction and foundation repair company in Southern California, is calling for earthquake preparedness across California. The recent aftermath of the Nepal earthquake has keenly put attention on the issue of preparing for the next big earthquake to hit the Pacific coast.

In a recent article, building safety expert at Julian Construction, Shawn Kyles, stated: “The 7.8 earthquake that hit Nepal’s Katmandu Valley last Sunday is a tragedy. Nearly 4,000 people are confirmed dead, and that number is expected to rise. The damage to structures throughout the area has also been horrific, especially in Katmandu, the nation’s capital. It is believed that hundreds of people may still be trapped in the rubble. The quake struck approximately 50 miles northwest of Katmandu, and was felt as far away as Pakistan, Tibet and Bangladesh. There were numerous aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.7. If you live in California, news of the quake has probably started you thinking again about the Big One – the 8.0+ earthquake that is expected to hit this area within the next 30 years. It is believed the quake will occur along the San Andreas Fault and cause devastation up to 100 miles away.”

The full text of the article can be found here: http://www.julianconstruction.com/julianconstruction-com-the-nepal-quake-and-californias-big-one/

Julian Construction is urging all homeowners to do their part, and be prepared for the next big earthquake. The company stresses that a home foundation inspection is a major part of ensuring that a home is made safe. A competent foundation inspection, followed by correcting any faults in the home’s foundation, will help to ensure a more stable and safe structure in the event of an earthquake.
Julian De La Torre, founder of Julian Construction, stated: “It is not a question of ‘if’. It is a question of when the next big earthquake will hit California. We all need to do our part to be ready. To save lives and preserve property, everyone must do their part to ensure we are prepared. Call for an inspection, get a competent and professional assessment of what your home will need to be ready in the event of an earthquake.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

JulianConstruction.com: The Nepal Quake and California’s “Big One”

By Shawn Kyles

The 7.8 earthquake that hit Nepal’s Katmandu Valley last Sunday is a tragedy. Nearly 4,000 people are confirmed dead, and that number is expected to rise. The damage to structures throughout the area has also been horrific, especially in Katmandu, the nation’s capital. It is believed that hundreds of people may still be trapped in the rubble. The quake struck approximately 50 miles northwest of Katmandu, and was felt as far away as Pakistan, Tibet and Bangladesh. There were numerous aftershocks, including a magnitude 6.7.

If you live in California, news of the quake has probably started you thinking again about the Big One – the 8.0+ earthquake that is expected to hit this area within the next 30 years. It is believed the quake will occur along the San Andreas Fault and cause devastation up to 100 miles away.

Did you know that the water supply for San Francisco Peninsula residents comes from two sources (the San Andreas Lake and Crystal Springs reservoir) that sit on top of the fault, or that the fault passes through three key transportation, power and utility corridors in southern California?

Experts believe that if the fault ruptures, it will break almost everything that crosses it. In one study, a scenario was created in which a large earthquake ruptured the fault for 200 miles. According to the report, there would be 100 seconds of shaking, and the ground near the fault would shift as much as 20 feet in some places. In other places, there would be back and forth movement of up to 6 feet every second, causing houses to fall off of their foundation.

Earthquake scientists have been saying for years that a big quake could level cities with poorly built masonry structures. Katmandu was considered one of those types of cities. Many of its buildings are made of brick, clay, timber and stone. Other cities considered to be at risk for similar reasons include Mexico City, Mexico and Istanbul, Turkey.

Here’s something else to think about. The Earth is made up of large, broken plates. These are sections of the planet’s lithosphere, the solid, outermost shell of the earth. There are 7 major plates and 8 minor plates. All of the plates on the planet are in continuous motion. You will find the largest number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions where these plates meet. They happen all of the time. There are an estimated 50 earthquakes taking place each day across the planet. In fact, the number of earthquakes with a magnitude 7.0 and above has been increasing over the past 30 years.

In Nepal, the India Plate is moving under the European Plate. In California, the Pacific Plate is sliding next to the North American Plate. Both regions experience quite a bit of seismic activity.

In California, considerable efforts are being made to ensure commercial and residential buildings are earthquake-proof. Even so, many structures are still not retrofitted. It’s important for anyone in California to know whether or not their home could withstand a large earthquake. Houses with no earthquake retrofitting can fall off the foundation or collapse when the ground starts to shake. Sometimes, damage can be severe enough to require the home be torn down.

There are ways to prevent potentially dangerous situations in a quake, like house bolting, which is anchoring the home to its foundation or house leveling. Los Angeles and other So Cal city homes benefit from these procedures. And the chances of damage from an earthquake increase when there is any type of pre-existing foundation problems.

If there is any chance your home has structural weaknesses, it’s a good idea to get a foundation inspection done by experienced foundation contractors before the next quake hits. Foundation issues can be addressed by a foundation repair expert who has an extensive history of work on homes in your area. Retrofitting is the best way to limit damage from an earthquake.

Shawn Kyles, expert in Los Angeles foundation inspection, repair & house bolting at Julian Construction (http://www.julianconstruction.com) in Los Angeles, has inspected over 15,000 structures for building & safety (http://julianconstruction.com/about/ ). See their video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I8j7dXzpj4