[blackdog]

On a recent visit to Seattle, where my daughter lives, we got into a week long overview of what I saw as ugly and weird buildings. She explained it pretty well over the week.

Buildings must now be constructed with vertical steel columns or spines. No bricks, concrete exterior, block, or stone. The masonry materials do most of the damage when the earth shakes. It seems one of the few good things in Seattle is the new approach to construction. Attached is a link to a good read on the topic. https://bfs-industries.com/blog/earthquake-resistant-construction/

[Carry_Okie]

Wood is light and strong in tension, far better in an earthquake than concrete. It is subject to decay and fire, both of which are manageable. Critical fasteners should be stainless.

We have a huge problem in this country with overstocked forests, especially in places like Washington. We should get a clue as to the energy and construction material going wasted, not to mention that an overstocked forest is very bad for wildlife and plant biodiversity.