Not sure if that caused the problem.My guys say the grip strip goes down much faster then the allure click-lock flooring and they prefer it for installation, they said they were "chasing gaps around" installing the click-lock and the lips on the click lock were super brittle.  

. - I have had decent luck with new drywall over the top and long screws, the old stuff is really brittle Belt sanders work decent on doors too

Some of the problems are that the wire can become brittle, the insulation wears off over time, the porcelain insulators may be broken, it is ungrounded and all the splices and additions to the circuitry is more of a load than these old systems were ever supposed to carry.

So far, insurance companies have weathered some pretty serious disasters in hurricane areas.Most wood-framed houses in California fair pretty well during most quakes because they're engineered to roll with the shakes, instead of crumble like a brittle brick house.

One reason why its not used anymore is as mentioned about the brittle covering, the porcelain, etc. 

Gently bend a shingle back (pick one on the edge) - the more brittle it is the older the roof, if it can't bend without breaking then you are looking at a roof replacement soon.The reality is that you should allow for roof replacement through maintenance amortization.

Or does it include wiring with an external tar impregnated cloth jacket as was used well into the 1960s: this wiring frequently has plastic insulators on the individual wires (which can become brittle) and/or paper sheathing within the outer jacket.

Both were kinda sandy and brittle.

The vinyl will become brittle (uv break down) over time and break that way. 

The LVT is easier to work with than brittle tile that may chip or crack when you try to shape it just right. .And if there are multiple tubs with the same base profile, it will go pretty quick once you have a template.It won't be that bad....don't overthink it.....With the "crown molding" look to the bottom of the white tub, there may be a slight flare/lip to the very base...probably not, but just a thought if you are trying to put a piece of quarter round up against it$2200/month for 1 bedroom units...... damn....that's coastal CA for ya.....