ABSTRACT
Ground movements can occur and induce a differential settlement to the buildings. Masonry buildings represent the majority of the existing structures. Due to the ground movement, these masonry structures are subjected to damage that may vary from a negligible to a very severe damage. Several methods are available to assess the severity of the damage and to categorize it. The chapter discusses the numerical model is a masonry wall supported by a beam with uniform vertical supports. A distinct element method is used (UDEC). The settlement of the system is applied by removing gradually the forces at some vertical supports needed to stabilize the bottom of the system. The chapter aims to develop a numerical methodology using the Distinct Element Method - software UDEC, to assess the variation of the stiffness of masonry buildings when being subjected to settlement. Analytical formulations are then suggested between the deflection ratio of the wall and the reduction of its stiffness.
