APPLICATIONS:
MASONRY STITCHING
Practical solutions to building problems
Click here to read the Masonry Stitching literature
Rotafix® Masonry Stitching System
SUMMARY OF FEATURES
The Rotafix® Masonry Stitching system offers a simple yet reliable method of permanently repairing structural masonry and brickwork by ‘overpinning’ and permanently reinforcing vertical or stepped cracks in walls. This method restores the strength and stabilises the structure. Subsequent soft mortar re-pointing hides the reinforcing. (For other repairs see CRACK REPAIR information sheet ref. no. CR1297/2).
The repair method consists of grinding out every third or fourth mortar course to half the depth of the brick and fitting a special epoxy-glass rod with a solvent free epoxy resin applied by cartridge gun. It is essential that a Structural Engineer has been instructed to check that the reasons for the cracking have been established and the cause eliminated. Under no circumstances should cracks be stitched if the cause of the cracking is unknown.
ROTAFIX® RESEARCH
Rotafix® has developed its solvent-free technology over the last three decades and designed heavy-duty repair systems for concrete and stone structures subject to severe operational conditions. Now you can benefit from this technology by replacing sand and cement mortars and associated polymer bonding agents with a high performance epoxy-cement system.
THE PROBLEM
Brick, block and stone walls are subject to cracking if movement takes place. This cracking frequently appears in the outer leaf in a series of steps, moving upwards through the perpendicular mortar joints. Lintels, soldier courses, new openings and window/door replacement situations can all require horizontal reinforcement to provide extra strength and stability to masonry. Movement of any kind needs to be fully investigated by a qualified Structural Engineer, although preliminary testing of drains, water supply pipes and wall ties can be usefully carried out by other professionals. It may be necessary to place monitor Telltales in order to confirm that movement has ceased.
This service can be performed by a Remedial Contractor. Many crack defect repairs are covered by Buildings Insurance. It is therefore important that the client is aware of this possibility at the investigation stage.
THE SOLUTION Reinforce the walls using Rotaflex® Rod and Rotafix Structural Adhesive, which form a flexural, inert combination of special glass composite rod and solvent free epoxy resin. This combination is unaffected by chemical attack and weathering. The resin, ( Rotafix Structural Adhesive), is a two pack Epoxy resin designed to be applied inside the slots cut into the horizontal mortar courses, prior to and after the insertion of Rotaflex® Rods. The resin forms a bond with the masonry and the Rotaflex® Rod, making a complete reinforcement. This combined unit then forms a high strength flexible lateral support in the mortar course that is unaffected by salts, water and the freeze/thaw cycle. The residual mortar course slot can then be repointed as normal and the crack itself closed with a flexible material or soft mortar, depending on the cosmetic requirements.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Stitching with the Rotaflex® System offers:
BENEFITS
GUARANTEE
The unique Rotafix® Guarantee offers total security:
These Rotafix® resin products are guaranteed for the life of the surrounding masonry
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Rotafix® is a research led Company dedicated to supplying materials and expertise to the Civil Engineering, Building and Remedial Industries. Our technical support extends nationwide through our team of Area Technical Advisors and recommended contractors. You need look no further for in depth support with Specification and site assistance.
Tel: +44 (0)1639 730481 Fax: +44 (0)1639 730858 General Enquiry: sales@rotafix.co.uk Technical Enquiry: daverotafix@aol.com
