Seismic Damages in Masonry Structural Walls and Solution Suggestions

Masonry structures are known as an ancient construction technology with a history dating back thousands of years. The main load-bearing members of masonry structures are walls obtained using different materials. These walls, which serve both load-bearing functions and are used to separate spaces, can be thick because they generally have low-strength properties. Masonry structures, which are commonly found in rural areas, are sensitive to earthquake effects and can receive damage at different levels. These masonry buildings, which were generally constructed without any engineering services, were exposed to significant damage under the influence of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake couple that occurred on February 6, 2023. This study examined the damage to the load-bearing walls of masonry buildings in the regions affected by this earthquake couple with the framework of cause-effect relationships and offered solutions. Poor masonry workmanship, insufficient use of horizontal/vertical bond beams, use of different wall materials together, heavy earthen roof effect, insufficient corner joints, amount of gaps, and use of low strength mortar have been determined as the main reasons for the damage occurring in masonry load-bearing walls. Performing earthquake-resistant building design principles is critical to minimizing such damage.