All The Lessons You Need on Crack Stitching
Cracked walls are a common occurrence in old structures. The cracks occur at different places and have varying effects on the stability of your structure. Superficial cracks on the surface of the walls may not have a significant impact, usually just affecting their beauty. However, deep cracks can affect the stability and tensile strength of the walls. Look out for cracks extending into the foundation, basements and beams. They affect the stability of the building, and a failure to repair these cracks can be catastrophic. You can repair cracked walls using crack stitching. Here is the information you need to learn everything you want to know about crack stitching.
Crack Stitching Defined
Crack stitching is a simple process of repairing and reinforcing cracked walls. Think about the way you would stitch a cut on your body or a torn piece of cloth, then apply the same concept to your walls. Essentially, stitching a cracked concrete wall involves retrofitting several stitching bars designed to join the concrete sections separated by the crack. You need to grout the stitching bars into place to guarantee a good quality seal over the cracked area.
The Need for Grouting
Grouting refers to the use of a thin mortar to fill joints and spaces that should not remain void. The thin mortar usually comprises a mixture of water and chemicals capable of solidifying or cement. Essentially, the primary reason for grouting is to create proper contact between the stitching bars and the concrete sections. It reinforces and seals the cracks for an appealing look.
The Appropriate Time for Crack Stitching
The best time for stitching cracks is immediately when you see them appearing on your walls. The cracks can appear horizontally or in a "stepped" manner across the wall. Intervening fast enough with stitching keeps the cracks from widening and becoming worse. However, make sure you investigate the cause of the cracks to identify any underlying issues. It is judicious to consider the services of a repair and restoration expert to assess the cracks and carry out the stitches. If you want the stitching to be a do-it-yourself project, then make sure that an expert handles the assessment.
The Results to Expect
A well-done cracking stitching project will resist further cracking while offering the strength needed by the masonry. Cutting the bars to size means that every section of the crack will have the right reinforcement because it fits perfectly within the bed joint.
Reach out to a crack repair professional to learn more.
