Brickwork Crack stitching
Cracks in brick or limestone walls can be unsettling. Some cracks can be just the result of normal structural movement and do not need any maintenance, just monitoring.
However, when cracks do advance further, they can spread, weaken the structure, and invite water damage. Crack stitching is a proven way to stabilise masonry walls, stop cracks from worsening, and restore strength without needing to rebuild.
How brickwork Crack stitching works
Wall crack stitch rods, often known as helical bars or crack stitching ties (e.g., Helifix), are 6mm-8mm stainless steel, twisted, or profiled bars used to repair cracked masonry. They are bonded into horizontal mortar joints with grout to bridge, strengthen, and stabilise walls, preventing further cracking while allowing for natural building movement.
It’s discreet, durable, and far less invasive than pulling walls down and starting again.
- Redistribute load
- Stabilise the wall
- Prevent crack reopening
- Restore appearance
A common problem with limestone - lateral & settlement cracks
Limestone can expand and contract with the weather, so incorrect hard cement mortars (sometimes incorrectly used for limestone repointing) can act as a wedge to push limestone cracks further apart.
Before crack stitching
After crack stitching
Crack stitching rod
Things to look for
To be sure if the cracks in your wall are normal superficial structural cracks or something that needs attention, book in a free assessment/quote with our friendly team. Some things to look out for;
Cracks that are getting wider over time
Crumbling mortar
White powdery residue
Loose or shifting bricks
Older limestone wall that hasn’t had masonry work in decades
Frequently Asked Questions about
Brickwork Crack Stitching
What if the footings have sunk? (Subsidence)
If the footings have sunk, we recommend seeking a specialist contractor who is equipped to pump expanding grouts into the ground below the footings in order to stabilise the subsoil and arrest the sinking.
From here, we can then action any further repairs that may be required.
Are cracks in brick walls always cause for concern?
Brickwork is designed to accommodate slight lateral movement without the structural integrity of the wall being compromised. This is a common issue and many of our call outs are to explain this to home owners and we will educate them how to monitor any further movement.
This can be a massive cost saving as the movement may be within normal parameters and not anything major to worry about.
However, we do always recommend seeking a professional assessment of the site because cracks can widen and become bigger headaches with time.
Mortarfix - local expertise you can trust
Brickwork behaves differently depending on climate, age, and materials.
Mortarfix has been serving the Perth Metro region for 40+ years, and understands the local climate and conditions that affect your brick work. We know how intense sun, rain, coastal air, and time affect mortar in Perth, and bring that expertise into every project.
You’ll get honest advice, clear communication, and workmanship you can rely on.