Another of today’s Structural Survey to investigate a bowing wall on this 1902 block of flats in Knowle, Bristol.
The bulge in the flank wall measures approximately 3.5 metres by 4.5 metres and is due to separation between the inner and outer leafs of masonry, after carrying out our comprehensive survey a solution was achieved using a combination of Twistfix helical bars, Twistfix delamination ties and lateral restraint ties together with deep bed grout injection and ‘re pointing eliminating the need to rebuild the flank elevation at a considerable cost.
Newman’s work closely with structural engineers, building surveyors and loss adjusters offering cost effective modern day methods of building and structural repairs, to see how we can help call 0333 444 0154
At Newman’s we utilise modern methods of masonry repair to restore bowing walls and lintel failure to name but a few structural defects.
Our specialist services were called upon by a building surveyor managing the refurbishment of a Victorian built 1890’s semi detached house in Croydon, South London.
Bowing Building London
After completing our survey it was discovered that there was extensive outward movement to the front and gable elevations and with the loft conversion in progress the additional stress to the masonry was sure to cause severe movement.
Bed Joint Reinforcement
Over 30 Lateral restraint ties were used on the gable elevation alone into the first floor and the new loft floor to restrain the outward movement combined with bed joint reinforcement ensuring there would be no further outward movement.
Lateral Restraint Ties Installed
With the bed joint reinforcement being installed front the front elevation wrapped around the gable and into the rear elevation the lintel failure was repaired and the bowing restrained.
That phrase is commonly heard within the Newman’s office, being a common problem to Victorian and Edwardian built properties we are able to offer modern methods of structural repair to prevent and restrain outward movement.
Bowing House in Need of Restraint
Bowing walls are caused by a lack of lateral restraint, which allows the masonry panels to move independently often outwards severely weakening the structural integrity of the property.
This is often evident at the levels of the masonry where the floor joists run in accordance to the floor and ceiling joists. Tying into the floor and ceiling joists is essential in repairing and restraining the movement and traditional tie bars which are visible on many period properties are no longer required.
Lateral Restraint Ties
Newman’s utilise the Twistfix Heliforce system providing lateral restraint by inserting 1.0m, 1.5m or 2.0m ties into the floor and ceiling joists with a resin fix into the brick work providing an almost invisible repair once aesthetic brick repairs have been carried out. Incorporating lateral restraint ties with helical bar creating deep masonry beams and replacement wall ties remove the need for expensive intrusive and dangerous remove and rebuild techniques that may have been previously used.
Author: Jon Newman
Posted:
Categories: Bowing Walls
