Wall ties are a critical component of cavity wall construction, helping to connect the inner and outer layers of brickwork in a building. These small but essential pieces of metal work behind the scenes to maintain the structural integrity of your walls. However, not all wall ties are created equal, and some materials are prone to rusting, which can lead to serious issues. In such cases, wall tie isolation becomes a key step in the replacement process to prevent further damage to your home.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of wall ties, the ones most susceptible to rust, and why isolating corroded ties is a crucial step during replacement.
Types of Wall Ties: From Rust-Prone to Corrosion-Resistant
Wall ties come in various materials and designs, depending on the era and type of construction. Let’s break down the most common types and their vulnerability to corrosion.
Mild Steel Wall Ties
Mild steel wall ties, often used in older buildings, are highly prone to rust. While these ties were initially treated with a thin layer of protective coating like galvanization, over time, this coating can wear away. Once exposed to moisture in the cavity wall, the mild steel begins to corrode and expand, leading to structural problems.
When mild steel rusts, it occupies a greater volume than the original metal. As the rust expands, it puts pressure on the surrounding mortar joints, causing them to crack and lift, further weakening the structure of the wall. This is why buildings with older mild steel ties are often at risk of developing cracks in the brickwork, such as “step cracking,” and other serious issues if the rusting is left unaddressed.
Stainless Steel Wall Ties
Stainless steel wall ties, commonly used in modern construction, are highly resistant to corrosion and rust. These ties are designed to provide long-term protection against the elements, making them the preferred choice for new builds and replacements. Stainless steel’s durability makes it a much safer option for ensuring your home’s structural stability over the long term.
Remedial Wall Ties
Remedial wall ties are specifically designed for the replacement of corroded ties in existing structures. Made from stainless steel, these ties offer superior corrosion resistance and are often installed during wall tie replacement to restore the integrity of the walls without introducing further risk of rust or decay.
Why Wall Tie Isolation is Critical for Corroded Ties
When dealing with rusted or corroded wall ties, particularly mild steel ties, removing or replacing them is not always enough to prevent further damage. This is where wall tie isolation comes into play as an essential step in the replacement process.
The Problem with Corroded Wall Ties
As mild steel ties rust, they expand, causing pressure on the surrounding mortar. This expansion doesn’t just affect the tie itself; it also forces the brickwork around it to crack. Even if the wall ties are replaced with modern, corrosion-resistant materials, leaving corroded ties in place can allow the rust to continue expanding and damaging the wall, leading to ongoing structural issues.
The Process of Wall Tie Isolation
Wall tie isolation involves neutralising the effect of these corroded ties. Instead of completely removing them, which can sometimes be difficult or invasive, the ties are isolated to prevent further contact with the surrounding mortar or bricks. This prevents the ongoing expansion caused by rust, stopping the cracking process in its tracks.
By isolating the damaged ties, we prevent the corroded metal from causing further harm while ensuring that new, corrosion-resistant ties can do their job properly. This is a less invasive solution than full tie removal and helps to restore stability without compromising the surrounding brickwork.
Why Proper Wall Tie Replacement Matters
Wall ties may be small, but they play a big role in keeping your home safe and structurally sound. If your property contains rust-prone mild or galvanized steel ties, it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Wall tie replacement, paired with proper isolation of corroded ties, ensures that your home remains stable and protected for years to come.
At Cavclear, we specialise in wall tie surveys, replacements, and isolations. Our expert team uses corrosion-resistant stainless steel ties to restore your home’s integrity, while our wall tie isolation process ensures that rusting ties no longer cause damage.
If you’re concerned about the condition of your wall ties or have noticed cracks in your brickwork, contact us today for a professional inspection and tailored solution to keep your home safe and secure.
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