Galvanised Metal Straps For Walls

[purplelily]

Hi all,

The Builder et al were really helpful with my query re the crack in my wall (at http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/Home-and-Garden/DIY/Question1329089.html ), thanks again.

I've had a structural engineer look at the damage. He didn't seem too concerned, but has said in his report:

"...we would recommend that the movement to the front wall is corrected by mechanically strapping back this wall to the party wall and this should be undertaken by using 5x30mm galvanised metal straps 1.20m in length by 750mm centres up to the wall on both sides..."

I've had a google, but I'm not sure exactly what I'm looking for here. If anyone could post a pic of what these might look like, I'd be grateful! If anyone has an idea of where I might purchase them from, even more so.

Thanks in advance ☺️

[Frank97]

I would imagine he means something like these
http://www.twistfix.co.uk/restraint-straps?uilang=1&povList=330471&gclid=CKjs56Xi_b0CFTHItAodYxUAwQ

[purplelily]

Thanks Frank, for your quick answer and the link. I did wonder whether he meant something like this, but didn't understand the bit about 'by 750mm centres' - does this just mean to leave 750mm spacing between each strap? Sorry if I'm being dim!

Thanks,
PL

[Frank97]

That's how I would understand it.

[The Builder]

Frank's got it sorted Lily :o)

Builders Merchants or Wickes for the straps. From the ground floor, or just the bedroom ?

Standard procedure anyway. Obviously not too concerned over any possible roof spreading. That's good to know. Yes... 750mm centres means 750mm spaced.

My only question is ... is your front wall rendered or is it facebrick? (Externally, that is )??

[purplelily]

Great, thank you both.

It's just for the first floor bedroom that he's suggested the straps. The front wall is face brick.

Sorry, another question! I notice that the straps have one edge longer than the other - my assumption is that the longer edge would go on the party wall, and the shorter on the front wall, or is it vice versa?!

Thanks again!
PL

[The Builder]

Yes, your right about the orientation of the straps. Long side down the party wall.

The reason I asked about the brick is that I would expect the strap to pass through the wall to the outside for a good restraint. You really wouldn't want to have them visible though. Did the SE give any indication as to how you could do this?

[purplelily]

Hi, The Builder.

At the time, the engineer just said that it'd be pretty easy to do, and I could probably get a friend or family member to do it. As far as I remember his description of how to use the straps, it was to gouge into the plaster back to the brickwork to lay them, and then make good over the top.

His actual report doesn't give any detail about how to use the straps, unfortunately - although within that, he suggests using a professional to do the work, and that it was likely to cost around £500.

Thanks again,
PL :)

[The Builder]

Ok that's good news. He's obviously not too worried then.

The straps have holes in them. I guess the best way is to drill the wall and rawlplug it with a few screws on each strap. Simply plaster over them then. :o)

[purplelily]

Great - thanks again for all your help, both.

PL x