Damp proofing, wet rot, woodworm and property refurbishment services in Dorset and Hampshire
If your home is like 71% of houses in the UK, it's probably been built with cavity walls. While these offer better insulation, moisture control, and soundproofing than solid walls, there's a catch: the hidden ties holding them together can sometimes fail.
It's easy to be put off by the cost and hassle of replacing them, so you're probably wondering: what exactly do cavity wall ties do? And more importantly, does your house even need them fixed?
Croft Preservation are the Dorset and Hampshire's go-to property care experts, and we're here to shed some light on cavity walls and cavity wall ties. Read on to find out what they are, how they work, and if you really need ties in your walls.
As the name suggests, cavity walls are made up of two separate walls with a space, or cavity, in between them. The outer layer, called the outer leaf, is typically made from brick or stone and is designed to withstand the weather. The inner layer, known as the inner leaf, forms the interior wall of the building and can be constructed from a variety of materials, including brick, concrete blocks, or insulated panels.
The cavity between the two walls is typically filled with insulation materials like mineral wool or polystyrene beads. This insulation helps keep the building warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing energy costs (though you do need to watch out for damp). The cavity also prevents moisture from penetrating the outer wall and entering the building. Air bricks, which have small holes going through them, are placed at the bottom of the outer leaf to allow any moisture that does get in to drain out.
Cavity wall ties are hidden components that connect the inner and outer leaves of a cavity wall. They're typically made from stainless or galvanised steel for strength and durability, and are designed to withstand the elements and any forces placed on the wall. However, they can fail over time due to corrosion or construction issues.
Yes! Wall ties play a key role in the stability and performance of your walls, and having faulty ones (or none at all) installed can spell major issues for your home. Here's what makes them so important:
Wall ties connect the outer and inner leaves and make them function as a unified structure. Without them, the walls could move independently, leading to cracks, bowing, or even the collapse of the outer wall. This is especially a risk during strong winds or uneven settlement.
Wall ties include a drip detail that directs water away from the inner wall. Without this feature, water can more easily penetrate the cavity and reach the inner wall, leading to damp, mould, and potentially serious interior damage.
Cavity wall ties are mandated by building codes in most areas. If you're thinking about renovations or adding new cavity walls, missing wall ties could put a roadblock in getting your permits approved.
Is your cavity wall showing signs of weakness? Don't worry, Croft Preservation is on the case! We'll remove your old, failing ties and install a brand-new set, making sure your walls are strong and secure for years to come.
Here's why we're the perfect choice for your cavity wall tie replacement:
Our services cover all of Dorset, Wiltshire, and beyond. Book a survey online or call us on 01202 737739 to get started today!
Air bricks may seem like small, unassuming fixtures, but they play a vital role in the health and integrity of your home. Particularly in properties with suspended timber floors, these ventilation tools can help prevent serious issues such as damp, condensation, and even structural damage.
Rising damp is an all-too-common issue that can affect homes of all shapes and sizes, especially older properties. It can cause problems like damp patches, mould, and even structural damage - issues that can be both expensive and time-consuming to fix.
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