Indeed, in New Zealand, for residential housing we have traditionally avoided such materials due to earthquakes. Timber framing is better at moving with the ene

Indeed, in New Zealand, for residential housing we have traditionally avoided such materials due to earthquakes. Timber framing is better at moving with the energy of an earthquake, so less likely to fail, and when it fails, well, it's far less heavy if it lands on you. The only injuries that occurred timber framed houses in Christchurch in the 2011-02-22 earthquake were from brick chimneys falling through the roof.