it's sort of criminal that we don't learn in school how buildings are made, even a little. if my parents hadn't both worked construction I wouldn't even know the little I know. this is one area where newer building codes may have driven up the cost of construction, but with the result that the flimsiest tackiest new development should have you sleeping soundly where seismic guidelines are concerned.

well, unless it's built right on the coast where no residential development should ever have been allowed.

ugh.