Seismic Strengthening or Retrofitting of an existing building is performed to
- AChange the architectural look of the building.
- BIncrease the number of floors in the building without changing the columns.
- CRepair minor cosmetic cracks in the plaster.
- DUpgrade the seismic resistance of a building that was not originally designed for current code requirements.Correct
Solution
Concept
Seismic Retrofitting
Formula
N/A
Step-by-step solution
1. Define the primary purpose of seismic strengthening or retrofitting. 2. Understand that retrofitting upgrades the earthquake resistance of existing structures to satisfy updated design standards. 3. Select Option D as the correct choice.
Explanation
Seismic retrofitting means modifying or strengthening an existing structure to make it more resistant to earthquake forces, helping to protect it from damage or collapse if it was not originally built to withstand modern seismic safety codes.
Shortcut
To remember the concept of Seismic Retrofitting, use the keyword "RETRO-FIT": - RETRO: Focuses on existing or older buildings (not new construction). - FIT: Upgrades and adapts the structure to fit modern seismic codes and withstand earthquake forces.
Common mistake
A common mistake is selecting option C by confusing seismic retrofitting with routine cosmetic repairs or surface maintenance. Another frequent error is choosing option B, assuming retrofitting allows adding extra load/floors without structural modifications, whereas retrofitting specifically focuses on enhancing structural safety and resistance against earthquake forces.
Correct answer: D) Upgrade the seismic resistance of a building that was not originally designed for current code requirements.