Cavity Wall Tie Repairs

What Are Cavity Wall Ties?

Since the start of the 20th century cavity walls have become a common feature in the construction of properties. Cavity walls were designed to give improved protection from the elements as well as to help reduce heat loss from the property. The two walls that form the cavity are held together at set intervals with wall ties (often made of zinc or bitumen coated metal). Originally the idea of the wall ties was that they would last the lifetime of the structure but it was discovered in the 1980′s that some types of cavity wall tie were deteriorating at a faster rate and only lasting between 15 and 20 years. Reasons behind the failure of the wall ties are numerous including substandard galvanising and inadequate protection as not all types of tie were galvanised.

When cavity wall ties corrode they expand, in some instances to several times their original size. This expansion causes the wall to crack – and problems such as horizontal and stepped cracking of the masonry, lifting roof edges, cracks within the property or bulging walls. This can lead to major damage of the wall or at worst the collapse of the wall. The Building Research Establishment estimates that from approx 9 million properties that have been built with cavity walls around 2 million suffer with some form of corrosion of the wall ties.

Repairing and Replacing Damaged Cavity Wall Ties

Our local surveyors are trained and experienced in cavity wall tie replacement and have a range of modern solutions to help. Utilising a range of specialist tools such as boroscopes we can find and replace any damaged cavity wall ties quickly and with minimum disruption to you or your home.

If the wall ties are damaged and remedial work is genuinely the answer, we will prepare a quotation and written report for you – we would never recommend cavity wall tie work unless it is really needed.

Arranging a Cavity Wall Tie Survey

If you suspect that your property has a cavity wall tie problem call Timberwise today on 0800 288 8660 or complete our on-line survey request form. For added peace of mind, our cavity wall tie repairs benefit from our 20 year guarantee.