Wall tie replacement in Southampton

Gerry · 26 October 2010, 15:13

Sorry, very non-RIB related, but...

Anyone know or recommend any companies in the Southampton area for wall tie replacement?

We've just moved into a new house and need to have some ties replaced in one wall. We got a quote via a company arranged by the estate agent we bought from, but I would much rather get some more quotes to see how realistic it is (and would rather use a company that came personally recommended).

Thanks,

Gerry

P.S. Anyone done it themselves? I've seen you can buy stainless steel adjustable ties, but presumable quite a faff to fit them?? Not sure I'd trust a structural wall to my DIY skills...

Erin · 26 October 2010, 16:59

Can't offer any recommendations, but it does depend upon what's wrong with the existing ties as to options for replacement. If it's only a few then I would think it is within the ability of a competent DIY'er.

You might try ringing a couple of local Structural Engineer firms. They'd have knowledge of firms in the area that can do this kind of work, as it is normally them that specifiy the need for it, not an estate agent.

http://www.triton-chemicals.co.uk/prodc1.php

http://www.twistfix.co.uk/2005_shop/...4&categoryID=0

Downhilldai · 26 October 2010, 17:06

What age is the building? I'd be surprised if it's only one wall that needs doing?

Gerry · 27 October 2010, 11:52

Thanks for the info.

The house is early 1900's - we had a full building survey done which highlighted the need to replace wall ties on one wall. I agree that others may need doing as well.

I've contacted a couple of companies who seem to be recommended on the web and I'll see what they come up with.

Gerry

Downhilldai · 27 October 2010, 11:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gerry

The house is early 1900's

Are you sure it has cavity walls with metal ties?

Erin · 27 October 2010, 12:06

Assuming it's brick built, then cavity construction came in around the turn of the century. I guess your problem is on a north facing wall and you have horizontal cracks at 450mm intervals going up the wall. Caused by damp conditions resulting in corrosion and expansion of the wall ties. Probably worth knocking a brick or two out to see what's actually going on before getting too carried away with expensive repairs.

PeterR · 27 October 2010, 12:43

If you find out what they would use and what type of construction you have of your wall .Its easy for me to say as i have been in construction for 30yrs.its not hard at all.you dont need a specialist just the right info and confidence.But if they are quoting say £300 maybe its worth it but if the quotes £500 plus ?.They would probably use stainless steel rod and resin.Drill through both walls and resin both ends.Obviuosly theres more to it.I.e chooseing positions .hoovering the dust out of holes.Its realley worth finding out as much as you can so you dont kick yourself because you can bet your life they will come and do it and youll say Damm i could have easily done that.How much have they quoted.Regards Peter

Gerry · 27 October 2010, 13:30

It definitely has cavity walls (you can see the walls from the cellar where pipes and vents go through).

The existing quote was based on a survey where I believe they put a camera in the cavity. This said:

"There is evidence of step and horizontal cracking to the external brickwork indicative of corrosion to the existing cavity wall ties. "

R/H Flank 58Sq.mtrs.
Rear (x3 elevations) 54Sq.mtrs.

They also checked the other walls, but thought they were ok ("showing signs of surface rust") and should be checked in 5 years. They're quoting for 346 stainless steel wall tie replacement (with scaffolding above porch on rear wall) for £1890 plus vat.

I see you can buy the self adjusting ties online and they look straightforward to fit. You drill through the outer wall and into the inner wall (How far? presumably not through the whole brick) and then set to tension with a built in adjustment. I think you're also supposed to do something with the existing rusting ties to stop them expanding and cracking the mortar?

Gerry

Downhilldai · 27 October 2010, 15:46

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gerry

I think you're also supposed to do something with the existing rusting ties to stop them expanding and cracking the mortar?

But not all wall-tie replacement 'specialists' include for this in their quotes.

Erin · 27 October 2010, 15:58

I've not had any first hand experience of removing old ties, but I would think you have two options. Either take the brick out above each one and cut it out, or core drill around it and remove it. One option is time consuming, the other is going to scar the wall.

I'm assuming they are so corroded that they are no longer tying the two skins of masonry together properly. If it is just because of cracking, but they're still structurally sound, then repair of the cracks would be easier, and perhaps some treatment to the wall to minimise water/moisture ingress.