What type of resistance must masonry provide in seismic design categories?

In seismic design categories, masonry structures must provide seismic resistance to ensure they can withstand the lateral forces generated by earthquakes. This requirement is critical because masonry, being a rigid material, may not have the same level of ductility as other construction materials like steel. Therefore, in areas prone to seismic activity, it is essential to incorporate design principles that account for the potential movement and stress that masonry may experience during seismic events.

These principles include aspects such as reinforcement, the use of shear walls, and adequate connections to transfer forces. Seismic resistance is specifically designed to prevent structural failure, enhance performance during an earthquake, and ensure the safety of occupants. While wind resistance and vibration resistance are important for different scenarios, and thermal resistance plays a role in energy efficiency, it is the seismic resistance that directly addresses the unique challenges posed by earthquakes in design categories associated with seismic activity.