Detection and evaluation of structural problems in traditional houses: Alanya tophane neighborhood example

This study was carried out to identify and evaluate the structural problems of traditional houses in Alanya Tophane Neighborhood, one of the most important historical structures of Türkiye. These structures, which contain the unique features of traditional Turkish architecture, are important architectural heritages of the city, reflecting the historical, cultural and aesthetic values of the region. However, various factors that have occurred over the years have caused these structures to be seriously damaged. In this context, the current conditions of the houses on various parcels in the neighborhood were analyzed and the causes of deterioration were examined. Lack of maintenance and abandonment, user errors, the effects of natural conditions and faulty restoration practices are among the factors that increase deterioration. A damage assessment table for the structures was created. In the research, 9 buildings located in selected parcels in Alanya Tophane Neighborhood were examined with on-site field studies and sketches of the buildings were drawn. Inspections were carried out into the structures that could be entered due to some structures being severely damaged. The structures were evaluated in detail using examination methods such as on-site observation, photographic recording and documentation of damage conditions. The findings revealed that most of the buildings were faced with structural problems, particularly due to lack of maintenance. It has been determined that there are problems such as decay in wooden elements frequently used in traditional houses in the neighborhood, material loss and cracking in stone walls. User-induced errors and interventions outside the traditional construction techniques of modern materials such as reinforced concrete have negatively affected the load-bearing systems of the structures. Damage to the structures has increased over time due to natural conditions, their location on sloping land, neglect and abandonment. Traditional houses made of wooden construction materials have suffered structural problems due to the deterioration of their load-bearing systems due to rotting, fungus, salinization and plant formations because of the region's climate conditions with intense rainfall and high humidity. There are partial changes due to faulty restoration practices and interventions in the unique architectural texture of some buildings. In this context, the study offers solution suggestions to preserve the traditional architecture of the region and to pass it on to future generations in a sustainable way. Suggestions include carrying out regular maintenance work, developing restoration projects suitable for local materials and techniques, implementing education and awareness programs, using digital documentation methods on structures and increasing earthquake safety. With the completion of studies covering selected traditional houses in Alanya Tophane Neighborhood, where structural problems were determined through observational findings through on-site field studies, it aims to contribute to the preservation of the identity of traditional houses as a cultural heritage, as well as determining the status of the houses in the district.