Wall ties are horizontal supports used to stabilize masonry veneer walls. They are commonly made of galvanized steel or tubular aluminum and are used in both exterior and interior applications. The type of tie used depends on the construction method and local building codes. Wall studs are the most common method of stabilization for veneer masonry work.
A wall tie is a form of horizontal support for wall structures veneered with masonry work rather than actually structurally constructed of brick and mortar. The wall is usually built with the typical wood frame or steel frame construction methods. After the exterior trim has been applied to the mount, the brick and mortar veneer can be applied. Occasionally, however, wall tie must be used as a stabilizing fastening method applied by the wall structure to the brick and mortar to hold the brick “wall” tightly against the structural form.
The most common method of stabilization for veneer masonry work is the use of wall studs. These are fixed to the wall form with screws horizontally and then fixed to the brick with a masonry screw vertically. Then the tie is simply covered with mortar and the next layer can be applied.
Wall ties can also be used for interior applications. Here, they’re used between interior walls to function as stabilizers and spacers so that the wall panels, which are often drywall, can’t sag or bubble. These types of ties are similar to those used for exterior trim, however they are shaped slightly differently to be applied to both the wall panel and stud horizontally.
In different construction methods, there are a number of different types of wall ties, as determined by the company that makes them. In most cases, the wall attachment itself is made of galvanized steel or tubular aluminum. These two materials have their advantages and disadvantages and are also to be used in different applications.
For example, galvanized steel wall ties are usually flat steel. The steel used here was either forged or cut by a press. These flat tie rods are mostly used for exterior cladding, while the tubular shape is mostly used within interior wall cavities.
One of the most important factors in purchasing wall strips is the state and local building and construction codes. The codes determine how often and weight rating a wall fixing should be used. In many cases, not only are specific types of wall ties required, but the screws and fasteners that hold them in place also have requirements on how long they must be and what materials they are made of.
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