When it comes to the structural integrity of your home, wall ties play a crucial role. These unseen heroes in cavity walls bind the outer and inner walls together, ensuring your house stands firm against the forces of nature. However, like all elements of a building, wall ties require maintenance to ensure they last and perform their role effectively. Here are our top tips on maintaining wall ties for long-term property health.
Understanding Wall Ties and Their Importance
The Role of Wall Ties
Wall ties, typically made from metal, are embedded in the mortar between bricks, forming a strong, interconnecting network across your cavity walls. They're a critical part of any cavity wall construction, resisting wind forces and providing structural stability.
The Risks of Neglected Wall Ties
If wall ties fail or corrode, it can lead to severe structural issues, including bulging walls, cracks in the mortar, and, in the worst cases, the collapse of the outer wall. That's why maintenance and, when necessary, wall tie replacement, are so important.
Maintaining Your Wall Ties
Regular Inspections
An essential step in maintaining your wall ties is to have regular professional inspections. Ideally, homes over 30 years old should have their wall ties inspected every 10 years. This will ensure early detection of any corrosion or failure, allowing for timely intervention.
Look Out for Warning Signs
Between professional inspections, homeowners should keep an eye out for tell-tale signs of wall tie failure. These include horizontal cracks in the mortar, bulging bricks, or even lifted roof edges.
Corrosion
For wall ties to remain effective and long-lasting, corrosion prevention measures must be put in place in addition to routine professional inspections. Since wall ties are frequently made of metal, they may eventually corrode if left outside in the elements. By adding protective coatings or treatments, wall ties' lifespan and structural integrity are prolonged and a barrier against moisture and other corrosive agents is created.
If you’re worried about corrosion, speak to one of our experts for wall ties in Bristol, Cardiff, Swansea, and South Wales by calling 07852 229017.
Drainage & Weatherproofing
Maintaining adequate drainage around the property is important for homeowners to avoid water pooling, which can hasten the corrosion process. These easy-to-do but efficient DIY maintenance techniques support both the building's structural integrity and the general health of the wall ties.
It is imperative to implement weatherproofing measures in regions that are subject to harsh weather conditions and have high levels of rainfall. By adding an extra layer of defence to external walls, weather-resistant coatings lower the chance of corrosion and stop water intrusion, protecting wall ties. The incorporation of weatherproofing measures enhances the wall ties' overall durability and their ability to withstand environmental conditions.
Consider the Age of Your Property
Upgrading or retrofitting the wall ties is a wise maintenance measure for older buildings or those with antiquated wall tie systems. New materials for wall ties have been developed that are stronger and more resistant to corrosion as a result of technological developments. In addition to improving the building's structural stability, retrofitting with contemporary wall ties offers the chance to take care of any corrosion problems that may have arisen in earlier ties.
Wall Tie Replacement: A Job for the Professionals
When it comes to wall tie replacement, it's not a DIY job. Wall tie replacement is a specialist task that requires specific tools and expertise to ensure that your property's structural integrity is preserved. This is where Cavi Clear Ltd can help. We offer professional wall tie replacement services in Cardiff, Bristol, and Swansea. Our team of experts uses state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to provide a seamless, cost-effective service, minimising disruption to your home.
Protect Your Property's Health
The importance of maintaining your wall ties cannot be overstated. By staying vigilant and investing in regular professional inspections and maintenance, you can prevent significant structural damage to your home and potentially save thousands in repair costs.
If you have any concerns about your wall ties or require wall tie replacement services, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Cavi Clear Ltd. Call us today on 01639 790426 or 07852 229017, or email us at caviclear@gmail.com. Let's work together to ensure the long-term health of your property.
