In an earthquake, objects with bigger mass are subject to bigger destructive force. A NonWoodHouse™ has bigger mass than a traditional house, but on the other hand its structure is stronger and tied in one piece by means of steel reinforced ring beams, not nails in wood. Walls of a traditional house are attached to floors on 3 1/2 inch wide wooden bases and vertical members every 16″ with nails.

NonWoodHouse™ walls are made out of a material with a spongelike structure. They are attached to floors on 16″ wide bases continuously with mortar adhesive and rebars into steel reinforced ring beams, which go continuously inside walls and floors. This means it is unlikely for the structure to fall apart and for floors to collapse. In addition, anti-earthquake features can be added easily and are compatible with the structure, as is commonly done in modern houses in seismic areas of Europe.

A NonWoodHouse™ may crack, deform, tilt, etc., but can remain structurally intact depending on the magnitude of the earthquake. It is also worthwhile to remember that much of the damage related to earthquakes is caused by fires, explosions, and water – a NonWoodHouse™ is naturally less vulnerable to these elements.

The best place to be during an earthquake is in a tent on a large meadow, provided that there are no seismic faults, large rivers or lakes, trees, or other structures nearby. Unfortunately, none of us have the liberty to choose the place and time when an earthquake strikes. The next best thing is to make your home as resistant to earthquakes as possible.