11.2.16 Wall ties
Wall ties and fixings shall adequately connect the cladding to the frame.
Wall ties and their fixings should be:
- compliant with BS EN 845-1
- fixed to studs and not the sheathing
- in accordance with and of the type specified in the design
- of austenitic stainless steel or assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3
- kept clean and free from mortar droppings
- inclined away from the sheathing so that the slope is maintained following differential movement
- capable of accommodating differential movement
- installed at a minimum density of 3.7 ties/m2 for masonry cladding, eg spaced at a maximum of 600mm horizontally and 450mm vertically
- spaced at jambs of openings and at movement joints at a maximum of 300mm vertically and within 225mm of the masonry reveal or movement joint; additional studs may be needed
- spaced within 225mm of the top of the wall, including at gables.
Structural insulated panels (SIPs)
Where wall ties are fixed directly to the outer sheathing layer, screw fixings should be used. The pull-out strength of screw fixings should be:
- tested, or
- designed in accordance with relevant standards.
Last updated: 2nd January 2025