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Before undertaking any form of replacement or repair, a survey is undertaken to identify the stage of corrosion, a programme of recommended works (wall tie reinstatement) or sequential monitoring.
An assessor will initially undertake an internal and external visual survey followed by an invasive wall cavity survey. Using a metal detector, existing wall ties will be located on all facades at two levels to identify the type of wall tie, the integrity and the status of corrosion. Following a survey, a report will be generated and provided to the client.
In recent years Wall Tie Surveys have been undertaken following a request from a mortgage company (lender), a purchaser through their own research or from an actionable outcome of a homebuyer survey undertaken by an independent building surveyor.
UK Wall Ties Ltd can undertake a Pre-Purchase Wall Tie Survey coupled with a Structural Engineers Report to identify the status of the brick tie and whether there is a requirement for replacement or monitoring. The survey will indicate the type of wall tie within the property on each façade at up to two levels, a classification of the wall tie corrosion, a proposal for remediation and a quotation for advisable works.
At UK Wall Ties we recommend a wall tie survey of the building using non-invasive and invasive survey techniques to identify whether wall tie replacement is necessary or an alternative remediation. When wall tie replacement is recommended the installer will initially identify the positions of current wall ties. Once identified new wall ties will be installed. There are multiple replacement wall ties which may be installed including: mechanical, resin, sock ties and drive ties. The appropriate wall tie replacement will be selected which is appropriate for the installation. Existing wall ties will be isolated or removed as necessary. Once replacement ties are installed, a pull test (using a calibrated Hydrajaw) will be undertaken on a proportion of newly installed wall ties.
Lateral restraint is often characterised by the outward movement of an outer wall which is a common failure in a period property. Lateral restraint is often required due to inadequate tying and connection of the outer masonry wall to the floor and ceiling joists. Internally lack of lateral restraint is identified by bowing or bulging walls. End of terrace gable and flank elevations are areas most affected by lack of lateral restraint. The requirement for lateral restraint is ascertained through surveys and the direction of an independent structural engineer.
Helifix products are often a cost-effective solution used for structural repairs. Helifix products can be utilised for a number of structural repairs including: crack stitching, lintel security for window replacement, stabilising bowed walls and reconnecting internal and external walls. The process of helifix installations includes a survey by UK Wall Ties Ltd followed by an independent structural engineer report. Following surveys, the reports will be generated and provided to the client for comment and action.