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Disclaimer: The effects, descriptions, recommendations, and suggestions included in this web site are intended to improve earthquake preparedness; however, they do not guarantee the safety of an individual or a structure. The Earthquake Country Alliance (ECA) takes responsibility for the inclusion of materials from various sources on these pages. The State of California, the Seismic Safety Commission, the ECA and all contributors to this document do not assume liability for any injury, death, property damage, loss of revenue, or any other effect of an earthquake.




Parapets and Cornices

Larger imageParapet Brace System

Source: Noson, Perbix, SSD

Purpose

To secure parapets and cornices.

Recommendation

Consult a structural engineer to implement any of the options below, where parapet or cornice height is greater than 1.5 times the thickness, some over-strengthening is advisable.

Supplies Required

  • Angle—3" x 3" x 1/4"
  • Continuous angle and channel
  • All-thread rod—3/4" diameter
  • Lag bolts—3/4" diameter
  • Epoxy grout
  • Blocking—4" x 8"
  • Clips—Simpson A 35
  • Masonry wall anchor—Simpson LTT

Larger image8-inch Wall Thickness

Source: Noson, Perbix, SSD

Installation

8" Wall Thickness

  1. Attach continuous channel to the top of the parapet with all-threads embedded 12" and epoxy at 4' on center.
  2. Weld 3" x 3" angle at 8' on center to continuous channel. Provide a lag bolt from the angle to a joist or blocking in the roof.

Caution

Parapets and cornices can detach during an earthquake, causing injuries and deaths.

Larger image13-inch Wall Thickness

Source: Noson, Perbix, SSD

13" Wall Thickness

  1. Attach continuous channel to the top of the parapet with all-threads embedded 12" and epoxy at 4' on center. Place all thread at least 6-1/2" away from the edge of the parapet.
  2. Weld 3" x 3" angle at 8' on center to continuous channel. Provide lag bolt from angle to joist or blocking in roof.

Note

Consult an architect for waterproofing details where structural connections penetrate roofing or flashing.



Source: School Facilities Manual Nonstructural Protection Guide

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Created in the SCEC system Last modified: May 24 2007 16:17 © 2008 Southern California Earthquake Center @
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