Table 4: Application suggestions of different strengthening/retrofitting methods.

Methods		Application
To reduce forces	Base isolation	This technique is suitable for newly built buildings, historical heritages and low-rise newly built structure as well as the structure located on hard foundation.
	Seismic damper	It is desirable for the frames structures located in the seismic prone area, but not common on masonry buildings.
To upgrade the existing buildings	Surface treatment	It is suitable for the structures whose function and appearance is not highly concerned while the reinforcement is more concerned, like the residential buildings.
	Mortar joint treatment	It suits the exterior masonry wallets because collar jointed wall system is applied to improve thermal insulation and prevent water penetration. It also suits the masonry heritages as it preserves its authenticity.
	External steel reinforcement	It suits the low-rise and weak building which lacks extensively ductility, it is not applicable on the masonry heritage..
	Post-tension	It is desirable for the masonry structure built with perforated masonry units as there is no need to drill the masonry walls.
	Mesh reinforcement	It is desirable in the developed countries and with skilled technicians. It is also ideal for the structure to resist blast. It is preferable in strengthening vaults and arches.
	Reticulatus system	It is suitable for fair-face masonry and masonry heritages of both regular and irregular shape.
To improve the integrity	Constructional columns	It is suitable for newly built structures.
	Ring beams	It is suitable for newly built structures or the FRP can be used to retrofit/strengthen the already damaged ring beam.
	Tie bars	It fits the similar situation as the post-tension if the tie bar can be fixed along the masonry wall both vertically and horizontally.
	Fibre/textile- reinforced mortar	It fits the same cases with grout injection or re-pointing if the mortar joint is weak or can be easily replaced.