Evaluation of Old and Historic Buildings Subjected to Fire

Abstract

Buildings with historic and cultural significance are part of the national heritage and must be preserved for future generations. Preservation of historic buildings depends upon usage consistent with their structural capacities and regular maintenance. Most of the old and historic buildings built in previous centuries are constructed mainly of masonry, timber, and steel. These materials have different mechanical properties and fire-resistance capabilities. Fires can cause significant nonstructural or structural damage within a matter of minutes or hours. An overview of the fire-related damages in bo2th old or historic buildings with respect to the types of materials, causes of fire, history of fire accidents, fire safety codes, and fire protection measures along with visual evaluation details of fire-affected historic buildings that were built nearly 200 years ago in Harpers Ferry, WV are presented and discussed.