Block 17 – 27 Studland Road, Liverpool, Parapet wall stabilisation works

As an approved installer of Helifix Ltd, Specialist UK Restorations were appointed as Principal Contractor by Cobalt Housing on a parapet wall stabilisation scheme to block of housing which forms part of their affordable housing stock. The block of properties in question were suffering from structurally significant leaning of parapet walls due to the lack of adequate lateral restraint between the external walls and floor joists, beams & partitions. Defects of this nature are common in properties built pre 1914, in end of terrace or semi-detached three storey houses. The Helifix designed restraint system formed the majority of the works, and included installation of Helifix BowTies into first floor ceiling joint ends. Bed joint reinforcement (using twin chord 6mm HeliBars) the full length of each parapet including a 500mm return to the gable. Removal of copings to allow access for vertically drilling and installing Helifix CemTies into the sound masonry of the main wall ensuring embedment to a minimum of 225mm. Once all structural works were complete we also undertook the decorative elements to include full parapet gutter relining, external sand/cement rendering and application of an approved masonry paint to the entire front elevation. Successful completion of the works included meeting the agreed programme, with any tenants remaining in-situ throughout, and provision of a 10 year Helibeam System Approved Installer Guarantee.