Advice and Repairs for Cracks in Walls - Scotland

Properties often require structural repairs for cracks in walls, Wise Property Care offer expert surveys, specialist advice and repairs including crack stitching. All repairs are specifically designed for the property in question, so no matter the type or location of your property in Scotland, we have solutions.

We are approved installers of Helifix structural products including Helifix bars, and can work with structural engineers to provide you with a solution no matter where your project is located in Scotland.

Crack stitching is used to secure and stabilise masonry that has elements of cracking. In Scotland many properties are rendered, sometimes masking the issues, but if you notice cracks, this could indicate a structural issue.

Crack stitching involves inserting stainless steel reinforcement bars, sometimes known as Helifix bars, into the mortar bed joint and then grouted in place. These are designed in a pattern that overlaps the cracked area, and provides structural integrity and prevents further movement. Compared to rebuilding the whole wall, crack stitching is a very resilient and cost-effective solution.

Zigzag, stair step cracks or stepped cracking is the most clear sign you may require crack stitching, especially if the crack is becoming wider over time. You should seek professional advice if cracks are wider than 2mm.

A diagonal or ‘stepped’ pattern indicates structural issues. Where cracking in masonry shows signs of being wider at the top than the base of the crack, this can be an indication of a more serious structural issue commonly associated with subsidence and ground movement. Crack stitching in conjunction with underpinning if required can be used to prevent further movement, providing a long term solution.

We will first carry out a survey or the affected area, and provide findings in a survey report, if crack stitching is required this will be detailed along with a specification for work along with costs.

The technician will first cut horizontal slots into the mortar beds, usually 500mm either side of the crack, and at a depth of 25-40mm depending on the wall thickness. They will then clean the chases out, to remove debris and flush out dust allowing for a clean bond for the grout. The grout is then injected, and high grade stainless helical bars are cut to size and fit into the bed joint. More grout is then applied into the bed joint on top of the helical bar.

Finally, once the bar is secured and in place, the technician will conceal the visual cracks by using mortar to maintain the original style of the property. Areas may require external renders to be repaired.  Wise Property Care crack stitching repairs will be carried out with minimum disruption, giving you a long term solution.

Using the right products, and installing them correctly, is key to solving a structural problem. Wise Property Care are a Helifix Approved Contractor, meaning we have undergone Helifix’s rigorous approval and training process. This ensures that the team is fully qualified to install Helifix’s proprietary systems, in line with strict industry standards.  We have full coverage across Scotland, so no matter where you are located, we are here to help.