Robert Balanel – Target Structural Cotswolds, Regional Director

As the Regional Director for Target Structural Cotswolds, our mission is simple: to deliver definitive, long-lasting structural solutions using the premium masonry reinforcement products manufactured by our parent company, Target Fixings.

Recently, our team was called to a property near Bristol showing clear signs of wall tie failure, a silent but destructive issue that can severely compromise a building’s structural integrity. We believe sharing our process is essential, whether you’re a homeowner seeking house crack repair or a Structural Engineer needing assurance in a reliable installation partner.

The Cracking Truth: Identifying the Root of the Problem

When we arrived, the property exhibited concerning signs—specifically, significant wall cracking in the external brickwork. For Building Surveyors and Property Developers engaged in commercial masonry maintenance, these cracks are often the primary indicator of underlying structural problems.

Our initial structural diagnosis moved beyond visual inspection. We employed a boroscope—a specialised tool—to look inside the wall cavity and inspect the existing wall ties. What we found confirmed our suspicion: the original ties had severely corroded, losing their ability to properly connect the outer masonry leaf to the inner one.

This corrosion is critical because it leads to excessive movement within the wall structure, which then manifests as the visible damage homeowners are rightly concerned about. Ignoring this problem can lead to expensive, large-scale structural repairs down the line.

The Definitive Fix: Why Material Quality and Expertise Matter

To restore the wall’s strength and prevent future damage, we specified and installed Grade 316 stainless steel remedial wall ties (Dri Flex), a flagship product from Target Fixings.

The Target Fixings Advantage

We recommend this specific grade of stainless steel for its superior corrosion resistance. It offers an ideal, long-lasting solution, especially vital for properties in high-exposure or coastal environments where traditional ties fail prematurely.

This is a key consideration for Architects looking for creative solutions to masonry reinforcement that combine durability with minimal visual impact, and for Structural Engineers who demand guaranteed material performance.

Installation Expertise You Can Trust

The effectiveness of any masonry reinforcement material depends entirely on its installation. Our Target Structural Cotswolds team carried out the work in strict accordance with the industry benchmark: BRE Digest 401.

Adhering to this standard ensures:

1. Precise drilling and tie placement.
2. The correct resin injection and pull-out force resistance.
3. A robust and reliable fix that eliminates movement and secures the outer leaf permanently.

Restoring Confidence and Integrity

This project in Bristol is a perfect example of how Target Structural seamlessly integrates a professional structural survey approach with the highest quality products from Target Fixings to achieve a definitive solution.

Whether you’re dealing with advanced wall tie failure, needing an initial structural diagnosis, or seeking a reliable partner for large-scale commercial masonry maintenance, our expertise is ready. We turn structural problems into peace of mind.

Contact Target Structural Cotswolds today to discuss your project or schedule a survey in our area.

Are you facing signs of wall tie failure or other structural issues? Contact us for an expert survey.