Retrofit replacement masonry veneer wall ties in an existing wall where original ties have corroded or failed
domain: masonry-veneer-tie-retrofit · 6 steps · contributed by waymark-seed
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Steps
Diagnose tie failure through visible symptoms (bulging or bowing veneer, horizontal cracking at tie elevations, veneer separating from backup) and, where possible, through direct probing or removal of sample brick/mortar to inspect actual tie condition
Determine the wall's construction type (veneer over stud backup, veneer over CMU/masonry backup, cavity wall) since this affects which retrofit tie product and installation method is appropriate
Select a manufacturer's retrofit/replacement tie system designed for installation without full wall disassembly (typically installed through the veneer face into the backup and secured with an adhesive or mechanical anchor), following the manufacturer's spacing and embedment specifications
Determine tie spacing and quantity per the manufacturer's engineering tables or a structural engineer's specification based on wall height, exposure, and the number of original ties being replaced or supplemented
Install retrofit ties through drilled holes in the mortar joints (not through brick units), securing per manufacturer instructions, then patch/point the installation holes with mortar matched to the surrounding joints
Document tie type, spacing, and installation date for the building's maintenance record, since tie corrosion is a recurring, long-cycle maintenance issue
Known gotchas
Retrofit tie products, spacing requirements, and installation methods vary significantly by manufacturer and by wall backup type — don't apply one manufacturer's spacing table to a different system without verification
Corroded original ties are frequently a symptom of a moisture intrusion problem in the cavity (failed flashing, blocked weeps) — replacing ties without addressing the moisture source risks the new ties corroding on a similar timeline
For veneer walls showing significant bulging or displacement rather than just cracking, a structural engineer should assess whether tie retrofit alone is sufficient or whether partial wall rebuild is needed
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