If you are attempting to add an extension to your home or building, you may have already realised that tying to existing brickwork can be a daunting and difficult task for the first timer. Since not many of us have more than one extension added to our homes as these are the most expensive home improvement projects we can endeavour to take on, it is likely you haven’t done this before.
Traditionally the problem was solved by “toothing out” the brickwork. This meant knocking out bricks to leave a tooth like shape into which a new extension could be built to keep the integrity and strength of the existing wall.
Another method of tying to pre-existing brickwork is known as Block Bonding. It is also possible to use a wall tie pack thanks to modern technology you and now bolt on the wall tie pack to the existing wall and wall ties are slotted into the rack when tying a new wall. The bond for this method remains as strong as the original wall bonding from the “toothing out” method and yet requires less time and effort to complete.
Before you complete any building alterations you should check with your building inspector to see if damp proofing is required between the walls or if an existing cavity need sot be included within your new walls. Make sure you check the building regulations and legal restraints before starting a project like this as well as ensuring you successfully apply for planning permission beforehand. This is a very important safety aspect of the project and is not just a legal requirement.
When tying new walls to an existing building such as when you are building an extension to your home, it is important to maintain the cavity. This involves cutting into your existing walls to continue the cavity around the entire building as a whole. This allows for insulation to continue without breaks and avoid cold spots in your walls. You need to be able to maintain a free flow of air within the walls.
If you are unsure about any aspect of this project and your building requirements then talk to your building inspector and your local council for further advice and information on safety concerns. Especially if you are in a densely residential area or landscape orientated area you may need special permissions and requirements set by your local council to protect surrounding residents and scenery.