Cavity wall ties are essential for maintaining the structural stability of a property with cavity walls. They act as connectors between the inner and outer leaves of the wall, keeping the two layers secure and stable. Over time, however, wall ties can become rusty and ineffective, especially if they are made from mild steel, which corrodes when exposed to moisture. When these ties fail, it can lead to serious issues like cracking, bulging walls, and even structural instability.
If your property is showing signs of wall tie failure or a survey has indicated an issue, it’s important to address the problem quickly with professional cavity wall tie replacement. This blog will guide you through the step-by-step process of wall tie replacement, from initial assessment to the completion of the repair.
Step 1: Initial Wall Tie Survey
The first step in the cavity wall tie replacement process is to confirm that the ties have failed or are in a state of deterioration. This is done through a wall tie survey, which involves:
- Visual Inspection: Our team will inspect the exterior walls for tell-tale signs of wall tie failure, such as horizontal cracks in the mortar, bulging walls, or visible rust.
- Metal Detection: Using specialized equipment, we locate existing wall ties within the cavity walls.
- Borescope Inspection: By drilling small inspection holes, we use a borescope camera to check the condition of the ties inside the cavity without causing major disruption to the walls.
- Assessment: We assess whether the ties have started to corrode, and if so, how extensively the corrosion has impacted the structural integrity of the wall.
After this survey, we’ll be able to provide a detailed report outlining the condition of the wall ties and any recommended action.
Step 2: Preparation for Replacement
Once it’s confirmed that replacement is necessary, we move forward with the preparation process. This includes:
- Planning the placement of new ties: The new ties need to be installed in locations that will restore the structural bond between the inner and outer walls. Careful planning ensures the ties are spaced correctly and in line with building regulations.
- Marking the drill points: The new cavity wall ties are inserted through drilled holes in the outer leaf of the wall. These locations are strategically marked based on the survey results.
Step 3: Installation of New Wall Ties
The actual installation of new wall ties involves several precise steps:
- Drilling Holes: Small holes are drilled into the mortar joints of the outer wall at the marked points. These holes will allow access to the cavity to insert the new ties.
- Inserting the New Ties: The new ties, typically made of non-corrosive materials like stainless steel, are inserted into the holes and secured into the inner leaf of the wall. Modern wall ties are designed to prevent the issues associated with corrosion and ensure long-lasting support.
- Fixing the Ties: Depending on the type of tie used, it is either mechanically fixed into place or chemically bonded to ensure a firm connection between the two layers of the wall.
Step 4: Removal or Neutralisation of Old Ties
In most cases, the old corroded ties are not removed, as doing so could cause unnecessary damage to the walls. Instead, we neutralize the old ties by isolating them from the brickwork. This prevents further damage caused by the expanding rust. In some cases, if the old ties are causing significant damage to the mortar, partial removal or careful cutting may be required to eliminate the pressure they exert on the walls.
Step 5: Repointing and Finishing
After the new ties are installed and the old ones are neutralized, the next step is to repoint the drill holes where the new ties were inserted. This involves:
- Filling the drill holes with mortar that matches the original brickwork, ensuring a seamless finish that blends with the rest of the wall.
- Repointing any damaged mortar joints: If the old ties caused damage to the mortar, we repair and repoint these areas to restore the appearance and integrity of the wall.
Step 6: Final Inspection
Once the replacement work is complete, a final inspection is carried out to ensure the new ties are securely in place and functioning as intended. We also check the overall condition of the wall, making sure the repairs have not only restored the wall’s stability but also its visual appearance.
Why Cavity Wall Tie Replacement is Important
Faulty or corroded wall ties can lead to serious structural issues if left unaddressed. The benefits of replacing damaged wall ties include:
- Restoring structural stability: The primary purpose of wall ties is to hold the two layers of the cavity wall together. By replacing failed ties, we prevent the inner and outer walls from separating, which could otherwise lead to bulging or even collapse.
- Preventing further damage: Corroding ties expand, putting pressure on the mortar and causing cracks. Replacing them stops the cracks from worsening and preserves the integrity of the wall.
- Improving property value: Addressing wall tie issues before they become major problems protects the value of your home. If you plan to sell, potential buyers will appreciate that structural repairs have been taken care of.
Why Choose Cavclear for Wall Tie Replacement?
At CavClear, we specialise in wall tie surveys and replacement. With years of experience and as full members of the Wall Tie Installers Federation, we are expert in identifying and resolving wall tie issues, our skilled technicians ensure every replacement is done with precision and care, minimising disruption to your property.
We use modern, non-corrosive materials and the latest techniques to provide long-lasting results that protect your home from future structural issues. Whether you’re responding to a survey recommendation or have noticed signs of wall tie failure, CavClear is here to help with expert advice and reliable, professional service.
If you suspect your property has failing wall ties or if a survey has recommended replacement, acting quickly can save you from more serious problems down the line. The process of cavity wall tie replacement is a straightforward but critical repair that restores the safety and integrity of your home. Contact us today to arrange a wall tie survey or to make an enquiry, here.
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