Helical reinforcement is increasingly used in masonry repair because it provides a practical way to reinforce cracked and weakened brickwork while retaining suitable existing masonry.
The system typically uses stainless steel helical bars installed into prepared mortar joints and secured with grout or another specified bonding material. HeliMate Australia supplies helical bars, coils, grout, epoxy and associated equipment for masonry reinforcement projects across Australia and New Zealand.
Understanding the components and installation principles can help contractors and property professionals determine where this type of reinforcement may be suitable.
What Is Helical Reinforcement?
A helical reinforcement bar is a steel reinforcement element with a twisted profile. When installed into a prepared masonry joint and surrounded by suitable grout, its geometry allows it to engage with the surrounding material.
In crack-stitching applications, reinforcement is positioned across the line of a crack. The repaired section can then transfer forces through the reinforced joint rather than relying entirely on the cracked masonry.
HeliMate describes its helical bars as suitable for brick wall crack repair, masonry crack repair and other reinforcement applications.
The Role of Crack Stitching
Crack stitching is a masonry repair method designed to stabilise cracked areas. HeliMate's published explanation describes the process as cutting slots into mortar joints along the crack, inserting reinforcement bars and grouting them into position.
The reinforcement spans the crack and connects the surrounding masonry.
This approach can be appropriate where the existing masonry remains sufficiently sound for retention. The exact reinforcement arrangement depends on the crack, wall construction and repair design.
Why Helical Bars Are Different
The helical shape is a key feature of the reinforcement. Its geometry provides mechanical engagement with the surrounding grout and masonry.
HeliMate's standard helical bars are manufactured from cold-pressed stainless steel 316L. The range includes 6mm and 8mm bars, 1,000mm lengths and 10-metre coils.
The use of stainless steel also addresses corrosion considerations relevant to reinforcement installed within masonry.
Grout and Bonding Materials
A reinforcement bar needs to be securely integrated into the masonry joint. For this reason, the choice and application of grout or bonding material are important parts of the system.
HeliMate supplies EzyGrout cementitious grout in multiple quantities and EzyBond high-strength anchoring epoxy.
The appropriate product depends on the repair requirements and installation method. Contractors should follow the relevant product and project specifications rather than treating every masonry repair identically.
Where Helical Reinforcement Can Be Used
Helical reinforcement can be considered in several masonry applications. These include cracked brickwork, masonry crack repair and reinforcement of existing walls where the surrounding structure is suitable.
HeliMate also identifies applications involving modern and historic brick walls.
For heritage buildings, the ability to reinforce selected areas while retaining existing masonry can be particularly relevant. However, conservation requirements and structural considerations should guide the repair.
Installation Considerations
Installation requires careful preparation. The mortar joint must be suitable for receiving the reinforcement, the slot needs to be prepared appropriately, and loose material should be removed before the bar and bonding material are installed.
The reinforcement needs to extend adequately beyond the damaged area so that it can perform its intended function. The final arrangement should be determined according to the repair design.
Poor preparation or incorrect placement can compromise a reinforcement system, which makes installation quality an important part of the repair.
Helical Bars Versus Remedial Wall Ties
Helical bars and remedial wall ties are both masonry reinforcement products, but they perform different functions.
Helical bars are commonly used for crack stitching and reinforcement across cracked masonry. Remedial wall ties are used to establish or restore connections between masonry leaves in cavity-wall construction.
HeliMate supplies both product categories, allowing contractors to specify different solutions for different defects.
A wall experiencing both cracking and cavity-wall separation may require separate reinforcement measures following assessment.
Assessing the Cause of Cracking
The presence of a crack does not automatically indicate that helical reinforcement is the correct solution.
Cracking can result from settlement, ground movement, moisture, thermal movement, deterioration or other factors. If movement continues, reinforcement alone may not resolve the underlying cause.
A suitable structural assessment can determine whether the masonry can be repaired in place and what reinforcement arrangement is appropriate.
Benefits of a Coordinated Product System
Masonry repair projects often require several compatible components. Sourcing reinforcement bars alongside grout, epoxy and installation equipment can simplify project preparation.
HeliMate's product range includes helical bars, coils, EzyGrout, EzyBond and a 420ml double-barrel epoxy gun.
The company also supplies remedial wall ties in a broad range of lengths for cavity-wall repair.
Planning a Masonry Repair Project
A successful reinforcement project starts with a clear understanding of the masonry. The wall type, location of damage, crack characteristics, existing construction and environmental conditions should all be considered.
Once the repair requirements are established, the appropriate bar diameter, length, installation position and bonding material can be selected.
Professional installation should follow the project's engineering requirements and the relevant specifications for the products being used.
Helical Reinforcement from HeliMate
HeliMate supplies stainless steel helical reinforcement products for Australian and New Zealand masonry repair applications. Its range includes bars and coils alongside the grout, epoxy and equipment required for reinforcement work.
For contractors addressing cracked brickwork and masonry, helical reinforcement can provide a useful repair option where the existing structure is suitable for reinforcement.
With appropriate assessment, product selection and installation, helical reinforcement can form an important part of a structured masonry repair strategy.
