Improving the lateral load resistance of vernacular masonry walls subject to flooding

Low-rise vernacular masonry buildings are vulnerable to damage from extreme flooding. This paper presents findings a study based in Sri Lanka assessing the structural resilience of non-engineered single-storey houses constructed with either fired clay brickwork or cement block walls. A survey flood-damaged enabled characterisation materials, and development proposals improve lateral load capacity The revealed that combination low-quality units variable thickness mortar beds may have contributed flexural failure due hydrostatic pressures during flood events. An experimental programme investigated impact differing on properties under dry saturated conditions. simple retrofit method has been developed, using reinforced renders, enhances sectional by over 11 times, offering greater loads. this research will direct welfare benefits for Lankan people living flood-risk areas, reducing risk collapse enabling remain safely their homes