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Bulging wall - replacement wall ties - rendered house!

Posted by Laura Yew, on
It’s a 1920’s semi. It's been suggested that the wall ties need replacing (although there are no cracks in the render) – does this sound right, or could it be a bigger problem? What else could it be? Will the rendering prevent the diagnosis, or prevent replacing the ties, and make it a much bigger job?
Nathan Pepper

Nathan Pepper

Good evening Laura, the fact that your property is rendered shouldn't make a diagnosis anymore difficult. A surveyor will use a metal detector to locate an existing tie and drill a 12mm hole to check the condition of the tie using an endo-scope. If the tie shows signs of rust it is a good indication that your wall ties are failing. Usually failed wall ties will lead to horisontal cracking in the render as they laminate and lift the brickwork. Given the lack of cracking it is possible that you may need additional lateral restraints fitted at 1st floor level although it is impossible to know without carrying out a full survey. Check your skirting boards for signs of movement. Good Luck Nathan Pepper FocalPoint

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