If you’ve spotted cracks in your brickwork or noticed a bulge forming in your wall, it’s natural to feel a little concerned. Are your walls on the move? Do you need a structural engineer? Is it time to panic? The good news is, not always. But you might be in need of a specialist repair, and that usually comes down to either wall tie replacement or wall crack stitching.
Although both terms crop up when discussing structural brickwork issues, they’re not the same thing. Understanding the difference can help you make a more informed decision, especially if you’re looking for wall tie replacement in Hampshire.
First Up: What are Wall Ties?
Wall ties are metal fixings that sit within the cavity of your external walls, tying the outer brick layer to the inner structural wall. In older homes—particularly those built before the 1980s—these ties were often made of mild steel, which corrodes over time, especially in damp or coastal areas like parts of Hampshire.
When these ties fail, the outer wall becomes unstable, and you might see horizontal cracks in the mortar or bowing in the brickwork. That’s where wall ties replacement comes in. It involves removing or isolating the old, corroded ties and installing new stainless steel ones to stabilise the wall.
So, What is Wall Crack Stitching Then?
Wall crack stitching, on the other hand, is used when cracks form in masonry due to movement, such as settlement, thermal expansion, or ground heave. This doesn’t necessarily mean the wall ties have failed.
The process involves inserting stainless steel bars across the cracks and bonding them into the mortar with a special grout. This “stitches” the wall back together, reinforcing the structure without needing to rebuild it.
How do I know Which One I Need?
Good question. It all comes down to the cause of the damage:
- Horizontal cracks? Bulging walls? Rust stains on brickwork? That’s often a tell-tale sign of failing wall ties.
- Vertical or diagonal cracks above windows, doors or corners? You’re likely looking at movement-related issues, so crack stitching could be the answer.
The best course of action is to get a survey done by a qualified professional who can assess the situation and advise on the correct fix.
Why it Matters in Hampshire
Homes across Hampshire, especially in coastal towns like Portsmouth or Southampton, are particularly prone to wall tie failure due to higher salt levels in the air. If your home falls into that bracket, Wall Ties Replacement in Hampshire should be on your radar before minor cracks turn into major problems.
While both wall tie replacement and wall crack stitching aim to repair and stabilise brickwork, they tackle very different issues. Mixing them up could mean solving the wrong problem—and wasting time and money in the process.
So if you’re seeing worrying signs on your walls, don’t guess. Get it checked by someone who understands the local housing stock and knows the difference between the two. Reach out to Davies Pointing Service. We have been working as your trusted partner for wall tie replacement for a long time. Let us know how we can help you out.