Wall ties are the hidden steel connectors that hold the inner and outer leaves of a cavity wall together. They’re essential for stability, but in older properties, particularly those built before the 1980s, rusting and corrosion of mild steel wall ties is almost inevitable over time.
The durability of a wall tie depends on its type, protective coating, and how exposed the property is to the weather. In homes with cavity wall insulation, the risk can be greater still, as damp insulation may trap moisture directly against the metal, accelerating corrosion.
How Rusting Wall Ties Damage Brickwork
Rusting isn’t just a cosmetic issue hidden out of sight. As mild steel corrodes, it expands. Developing rust occupies a greater volume than the original steel. This increased size forces the surrounding mortar bed to split and lift, creating step-cracks along the wall. Once this process begins, the cracks will continue to spread and the damage will inevitably worsen.
Signs of advanced wall tie corrosion include:
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Horizontal or stepped cracking in mortar joints
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Bulging or bowing outer walls
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Loose or unstable brickwork
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Reduced resistance to wind loads
While sudden wall failure is unlikely, the long-term structural impact is serious and can affect both safety and the resale value of your home.
How CavClear Rectifies Wall Tie Failure
The good news is that if the issue is recognised early, the walls can be treated rather than rebuilt. At CavClear, our process involves:
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Locating existing ties with electronic detection.
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Installing new stainless-steel remedial wall ties that are highly resistant to corrosion.
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Isolating the old ties to prevent further expansion and cracking of the outer leaf.
This method restores the structural stability of your cavity walls and prevents further damage, offering a long-term and cost-effective solution.
Why Early Detection Matters
Catching wall tie corrosion before it progresses too far makes all the difference. A professional wall tie survey provides clear answers on the condition of your ties and helps you avoid the far higher costs of structural rebuilding.
Ignoring the issue doesn’t just risk further damage, it may also affect your property’s value if highlighted in a buyer’s survey. Acting early protects both your home and your investment.
Book a Wall Tie Survey with CavClear
If you’ve noticed cracks in your brickwork, or if your property is of the age where mild steel wall ties are likely to be failing, now is the time to act. Contact CavClear today to book your wall tie survey and protect your home from the hidden impact of rusting wall ties.
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