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Tilt up
Tilt up construction is a construction method that was used until approximately 1980. These concrete structures were built by first pouring concrete to make walls horizontally, and then lifting those horizontal panels to their vertical position. Although this construction method provided significant cost savings, it proved extremely unsafe in earthquakes. This was mainly due to the fact that lightweight plywood roofs were usually used in these structures. During earthquakes, these roofs became detached from the rest of the structure, and cause the walls to lose stability. SFT Construction is one of few contractors capable of retrofitting such structures.

Unreinforced Masonry (URM)
Unreinforced masonry structures are buildings built of bricks, without any additional support. These buildings are very rigid. Therefore, in case of an earthquake, they crack and easily topple. Much of the worst damage that is observed during earthquakes is that which has happened to unreinforced masonry structures. In order to strengthen these buildings, additional components, such as braces or anchoring, can be installed. SFT Construction has dealt with URM structures and always finds a solution to increase their earthquake resilience.






Non-ductile Concrete Building
Concrete jacketing is a key component of the non-ductile concrete retrofit strategy, particularly in seismic-prone regions like San Francisco. Non-ductile concrete structures, often found in older buildings, are highly vulnerable to earthquake-induced damage due to their lack of flexibility and strength under lateral forces. Concrete jacketing addresses these weaknesses by reinforcing existing structural elements such as columns, beams, and shear walls with an additional layer of high-strength concrete, reinforced with steel rebar. This process significantly improves the building's capacity to withstand seismic activity, ensuring that it meets the rigorous safety standards set forth by the city's building codes.
San Francisco is currently developing an ordinance that mandates the retrofitting of non-ductile concrete buildings to improve seismic resilience across the city. As part of this effort, concrete jacketing has become a critical solution for upgrading vulnerable structures to meet the updated seismic safety requirements. At SFT Construction, we specialize in providing precise, code-compliant concrete jacketing services that align with San Francisco's evolving regulations. Our team ensures that each retrofit is performed with the highest attention to detail, using the latest materials and techniques to enhance the strength and durability of the building. With the city’s mandate on the horizon, we are committed to helping property owners navigate the complexities of non-ductile retrofitting, ultimately ensuring that their buildings are safer and more resilient in the face of future seismic events. For more information on San Francisco’s Concrete Building Safety Program, visit One San Francisco Concrete Building Safety Program.