The determination of seismic performance of single-story masonry buildings and strengthening proposal
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Non‑engineered structures—exemplified by traditional unreinforced masonry dwellings—constitute a vital repository of vernacular construction knowledge that should be safeguarded for future generations. However, their intrinsic vulnerability to seismic action demands systematic assessment. This study evaluates the seismic performance of a single-story non‑engineered building through an integrated appraisal of its as‑found condition, material properties, and geometric configuration. Field surveys supplied the requisite data, underpinning a suite of state‑of‑the‑art analyses: elastic response‑spectrum assessment, nonlinear static (pushover) analysis, and kinematic limit‑state modeling. All three approaches consistently revealed localized zones of elevated stress and excessive deformation, elucidating critical weaknesses and probable collapse mechanisms. On this basis, strengthening strategies are proposed, focusing on strengthening the lateral‑load‑resisting system, enhancing material capacity, and judiciously introducing modern technologies. The research program was extended by strengthening the masonry walls with externally bonded textile‑reinforced mortar (TRM) overlays. A parametric investigation of one‑, two‑, and four‑ply TRM configurations was undertaken to quantify the incremental enhancements in global seismic performance afforded by successive layers. The findings offer a methodological framework for the seismic appraisal of non‑engineered residential stock and establish a robust foundation for future research into conserving and upgrading heritage masonry assets.