Replacement Wall Ties; Structural reinforcement
Replacing cavity wall ties with a remedial tying system is a low-cost alternative to rebuilding walls that are suffering from wall tie corrosion. For 30 years, wall tie replacement has become the accepted method of solving the problem of cavity tie failure.
Ties produced from steel wire may erode and disintegrate, resulting in the façade wall becoming free-standing and vulnerable to wind loads.
Ties manufactured from steel plate tend to force the brickwork apart as they expand. These forces may cause a series of cracks to develop along the mortar joints where you lay the ties. Such horizontal cracking significantly weakens the structural integrity of the wall when the eroding ties are less able to support it.
In both cases, replacing cavity wall ties with a corrosion resistant wall tie system provides a lasting remedial solution. Thor Helical manufactures a range of retrofit ties.
History of Wall Ties
In ancient times, builders used various methods to construct walls, including stacking stones or bricks without any bonding agents. These early structures lacked the sophistication of modern cavity walls.
The earliest wall ties were simple metal straps or rods embedded in the mortar between the bricks or stones. These ties were typically made of iron or steel.
As construction techniques evolved, so did the design of wall ties. They introduced adjustable wall ties to accommodate variations in cavity width. This innovation provided more flexibility in construction methods. In the mid-20th century, the construction industry saw advancements in materials. Galvanized steel became a popular choice for wall ties due to its corrosion resistance, ensuring durability and longevity. Developers created different types of wall ties to suit various construction needs. These included wire ties, butterfly ties, fishtail ties, and screw-in ties. Each type had specific applications and advantages.
Today, wall tie technologies continue to advance with the introduction of materials like stainless steel and composite materials. These modern ties often come with features like thermal breaks to enhance energy efficiency in buildings.
Cavity Walls; Replacement and Reinforcement
The concept of the cavity wall, with an inner and outer layer separated by a gap or cavity, emerged in the 19th century as a response to issues with water penetration and dampness in buildings. Separate layers serve a few functions:
- Thermal insulation
- Economically cheaper than solid walls
- A barrier against moisture/dampness
- Reduction in the weight on a foundation due to lesser thickness
Remedial wall ties are employed when issues with existing ties compromise the structural stability of the cavity wall, or if the wall was constructed without adequate ties.
Installing Wall Ties
Installing cavity wall ties is a critical step in ensuring the stability and structural integrity of cavity walls.
Here’s a step-by-step for the process behind installing Thorhelical wall ties:
- First, drill a pilot hole to a depth of less than 10mm longer than the length of the tie.
- Use a lightweight hammer-drill to drive the shank of the tie, coupled with the SDS tool, into both walls.
- Patch the pilot hole, now with the recessed tie, using Thor WHO60 grout.
Thor Helical’s best-selling remedial wall ties, patented across four continents, consistently outperform every other helical wall tie on the market.
How bad is it?
Always consult with a structural engineer or a qualified professional if you are uncertain about the severity of the issues or the appropriate repair methods. Regular inspections and addressing issues promptly can help prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs in the long run.
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