How to Choose Materials to Withstand Earthquakes for Second-Hand Houses and Condos

"A safe home is not about luck, but about our wise choice of materials."

Thailand may not experience earthquakes as frequently as Japan or Indonesia, but when they do occur, the damage can be just as severe, especially for second-hand houses and older condos whose structures may have deteriorated over time.

If you are renovating a second-hand house or inspecting a condo for living or rental purposes, here are guidelines for selecting materials to "boost confidence" and reduce risks when an earthquake actually happens.

✅ 1. Check the Main Structure Before Adding Materials

Before making any changes or additions, you need to know how much the house or condo structure can withstand vibrations.
Always have a licensed structural engineer assess the condition first, especially regarding the following important points:

  • Are the columns, beams, floors, and foundations made of reinforced concrete?

  • Are there cracks or separations in the connections between the floors and walls?

  • Is the building taller than 3 stories? (The taller it is, the more it needs to withstand lateral forces.)

???? 2. Choose Flexible Wall Materials

Wall materials that are too rigid, such as brick or thick plaster, may crack or fall during an earthquake.
Opt for materials that are "flexible yet strong," such as:

  • Earthquake-resistant Gypsum Board

  • Lightweight Fiber Cement Board Walls + Steel Frame

  • Sandwich Panels (with impact-resistant insulation)

The key is to secure the materials tightly to the structure — it’s not just about choosing the right materials, but also ensuring the installation method is safe.

???? 3. Use “Shock-Absorbing” Materials in Decorations

Furniture falling during an earthquake is the leading cause of injuries.
Choose lightweight and shock-absorbing materials, such as:

  • Rubberwood or lightweight solid wood furniture

  • Use foam padding behind wall-mounted shelves

  • Avoid glass cabinets or large mirrors that are not secured with anti-shake systems

???? 4. Add a “Damping System” for High Condos

For condos taller than 8 stories, consider a damping system, such as:

  • Base Isolation Pads for the main structural columns

  • Tuned Mass Dampers (TMD) on the roof or top floor

  • Anti-vibration pads for cabinets/furniture for residents

???? 5. Life-Saving Accessories

  • Automatic anti-shake door and window locks

  • Vibration detection sensors connected to alert apps

  • Straps for cabinets/shelves/anchoring furniture to walls

These may seem minor, but when vibrations hit, they could mean the difference between safety and serious injury.

???? Conclusion: A Safe Home or Condo Requires “Forward-Thinking” Material Choices

  • Check the existing structure thoroughly before renovating

  • Choose lightweight, flexible materials and install them securely

  • Add vibration-damping systems and furniture anchoring devices

  • Don’t overlook safety in the small details that are often ignored

???? “Preparation is the best shield against natural disasters. A well-maintained home is a fortress of stability in life.”