Request a Call Back
No Pressure. Just Honest Advice.
We’re a family-run business with a no-pressure approach. We don’t use pushy sales tactics, we don’t cold call, and we never pass your details on.
Just honest advice and straightforward quotes.
Leave your details below and we’ll give you a call to help.
Wall Tie Replacement Specialists!
We carry out professional wall tie inspections and replacement across the North West. Using specialist equipment, we assess the condition of existing ties and install new stainless steel remedial ties where required, in line with current standards.
The cost of the survey is deducted from any remedial works carried out by us!
What Causes Wall Tie Corrosion?
Wall ties installed before the 1980s are prone to corrosion, particularly in damp conditions. Moisture in the air and water entering the cavity can accelerate this process over time. As the ties begin to corrode, they expand within the mortar joints, which can lead to horizontal cracking, bulging brickwork and structural movement.
In older properties, black ash mortar can also contribute to corrosion. The impurities within this type of mortar can react with the steel ties, increasing the rate of deterioration.
Older tie types such as butterfly wire ties are also known to fail over time, sometimes without obvious warning signs.
We assess all wall ties in line with BRE Digest 329 & 401 guidelines. These industry-recognised charts are included within our reports for full transparency, ensuring all recommendations are based on established standards — not opinion.
We Don’t Guess – We Follow Proven Standards!
Horizontal Cracking
Horizontal cracks usually appear in the mortar joints and are commonly caused by the expansion of corroding wall ties. As the steel rusts, it expands and forces the surrounding masonry apart.
Bulging Masonry
Bulging or bowing walls occur when wall ties fail and no longer restrain the outer leaf. In severe cases, this can lead to instability and potential collapse if left untreated.
Window / Door Opening Distortion
Gaps or distortion around windows and doors can occur when the wall loses stability. Failed ties allow movement, which puts pressure on openings and causes misalignment.
Roof Edges Lifting
In some cases, expansion and cracking can affect how loads are distributed. This can result in lifting at roof edges or gable movement due to the outer leaf no longer being properly restrained.
Stepped Cracking
Stepped cracking follows the mortar joints in a stair-step pattern. This is a strong indication of wall tie failure, where expansion or movement is transferring stress through the brickwork.
Outer Leaf Movement / Separation
When wall ties fail completely, the outer leaf can begin to separate from the structure. This is a serious issue and requires urgent attention to prevent further structural damage.
Signs of Wall Tie failure
Horizontal Cracking
Horizontal cracks usually appear in the mortar joints and are commonly caused by the expansion of corroding wall ties. As the steel rusts, it expands and forces the surrounding masonry apart.
Bulging Masonry
Bulging or bowing walls occur when wall ties fail and no longer restrain the outer leaf. In severe cases, this can lead to instability and potential collapse if left untreated.
Window / Door Opening Distortion
Gaps or distortion around windows and doors can occur when the wall loses stability. Failed ties allow movement, which puts pressure on openings and causes misalignment.
Roof Edges Lifting
In some cases, expansion and cracking can affect how loads are distributed. This can result in lifting at roof edges or gable movement due to the outer leaf no longer being properly restrained.
Stepped Cracking
Stepped cracking follows the mortar joints in a stair-step pattern. This is a strong indication of wall tie failure, where expansion or movement is transferring stress through the brickwork.
Outer Leaf Movement / Separation
When wall ties fail completely, the outer leaf can begin to separate from the structure. This is a serious issue and requires urgent attention to prevent further structural damage.
Brick Spalling
Bricks may begin to crack or break apart due to pressure from expanding corroded ties. This is often seen alongside horizontal cracking and indicates ongoing internal stress
Cracks in Render
Cracks in rendered surfaces can indicate underlying structural movement. In many cases, this is caused by failing wall ties expanding and pushing against the outer leaf.
Vertical Cracking
Vertical cracks can form when sections of the wall begin to move independently. This is often linked to failed or missing wall ties allowing separation between the inner and outer leaf.
Important
A professional wall tie survey is essential to identify the original tie type used in construction. Certain types must be isolated or removed after installing a new wall tie system.
Even with new ties installed, old redundant ties can continue to corrode and expand, causing further cracking and damage if not addressed correctly.
Book A Mortgage-Ready Wall Tie Survey
This form is for booking a wall tie survey and report suitable for mortgage lenders and property purchases.
For quotes, advice, or general enquiries, please contact us directly, request a call back, or WhatsApp us.