Hidden Strength: How Helifix Structural Ties Help Preserve Historic Masonry

Historic masonry buildings are designed to last for centuries, but time, foundation movement, weather, and previous repairs can all contribute to cracking and structural movement. One of the most effective ways to stabilize these buildings while preserving their historic character is through the use of concealed structural reinforcement systems.

For more than 30 years, Restoration Artisans has successfully installed Helifix structural repair systems on historic churches, residences, and heritage buildings throughout the region. These innovative stainless steel reinforcement systems provide exceptional structural support while remaining virtually invisible once installed, allowing the original masonry to retain its historic appearance.

Why We Use Helifix

At Restoration Artisans, we appreciate restoration methods that are both effective and minimally invasive. Helifix remedial ties and reinforcement systems allow us to strengthen existing masonry without introducing large visible steel components or unnecessarily dismantling historic fabric.

The high-grade stainless steel ties are designed to resist corrosion while providing long-term structural reinforcement for brick, stone, and masonry construction. Once installed and concealed within the mortar joints or masonry, they become an integral part of the wall, preserving the building’s appearance while restoring its structural integrity.

Solutions for a Wide Range of Structural Problems

Helifix manufactures a variety of specialized structural reinforcement products, each engineered to solve specific masonry problems. Depending on the condition of the building, these systems can be used to:

• Stitch structural cracks in brick and stone masonry.
• Reinforce weakened walls.
• Stabilize cracked arches and lintels.
• Secure loose or bulging masonry.
• Reconnect separated masonry wythes.
• Reinforce historic stone and brick façades.
• Install concealed remedial wall ties where original ties have failed.

Among the systems we frequently utilize are DryFix remedial wall ties, which mechanically anchor masonry without the need for chemical resins, and CemTies, which are grouted into place to provide exceptional strength in a wide variety of masonry applications. Selecting the appropriate system depends on the construction of the building and recommendations developed in conjunction with the project’s structural engineer.

Working with Structural Engineers

Every historic building presents unique structural challenges. Restoration Artisans works closely with structural engineers to develop repair strategies that address the cause of movement while preserving as much original historic material as possible.

Specialty historic masonry fasteners from Helifix, VoidSpan, and Cintec provide engineers and preservation specialists with proven solutions for repairing cracked or weakened masonry. These systems can restore structural integrity to historic stone and brick buildings that have experienced decades—or even centuries—of movement.

In many cases, walls that have separated or cracked can literally be “stitched” back together using corrosion-resistant stainless steel reinforcement concealed within the existing masonry.

Preserving Historic Buildings for Future Generations

Structural stabilization should never compromise a building’s historic character. By combining traditional masonry restoration techniques with modern concealed reinforcement systems, Restoration Artisans is able to preserve the authenticity of historic structures while ensuring they remain safe and structurally sound for generations to come.

With over three decades of experience installing specialty structural reinforcement systems, our team continues to utilize proven restoration methods and high-quality materials that respect both the engineering needs and the historic significance of every project.

Highlights of the work completed on this historic structure.