The Helibeam System of structural reinforcement and stabilisation is at the heart of our technical strategy.

The Helibeam System provides a rapid, cost-effective means of restoring structural integrity to buildings and structures where the masonry has failed and lost its load-bearing capabilities. Using a combination of different Helifix products and techniques, it provides a comprehensive, reliable and economic system of repair and stabilisation that may be used to address a wide range of commonly occurring structural faults.

How it works

The Helibeam System comprises the installation of horizontal bed-joint reinforcement into masonry that has cracked and failed due to seismic activity, ground movement, component failure, weathering or increased loads and stresses. It works by tying the masonry together to create deep masonry beams which distribute structural loads. The installation of wall ties and vertical pinning ties completes the system by providing lateral and vertical restraint.

Typical situations

Subsidence - Superstructure repairs

In most situations the Helibeam System can be used to secure stressed masonry by creating masonry beams that reinforce the existing masonry and redistribute loads away from the problem area. Combined with tying, pinning and Crack Stitiching, the use of the Helibeam System will restore full structural integrity.

Subsidence - Substructure repairs

In some cases, use of the Helibeam System in conjunction with concrete pads under the building corners, or at selected points, will minimise the need for expensive and disruptive mass underpinning.

Failed lintels/window replacement programmes

The traditional solution to the problem of failed lintels involves cutting out the brickwork, mechanically supporting the masonry above the opening and installing a new lintel - all very disruptive, time consuming and expensive. The Helibeam System utilises the existing masonry to create a masonry beam above the opening to provide the required structural support, often in conjunction with vertical pinning using DryFix or CemTies. For window replacement programmes where the window frame has been used to support the masonry, the Helibeam System provides a rapid and economical means of creating a lintel within the existing masonry.

Unstable masonry

Masonry may deteriorate and become unstable over time due to seismic activity, weathering, mortar deterioration and changing structural loads. Similarly, renders and stone facades may crack and delaminate over time as a result of deteriorating strength. In this setting, the Helibeam System may be used to help restore structural integrity and prevent further deterioration through the installation of HeliBar bed joint reinforcement. DryFix wall ties installed to replace corroded wall ties and to reconnect delaminated render and thin wall panelling may be used to reinstate lateral stability to cavity and rendered/panelled wall systems.

Bowed and separated walls

Where external walls have separated from internal and party walls or diaphragms, and depending on the individual situation, the Helibeam System may be used to provide horizontal restraint in the external wall while BowTies are used to improve diaphragm connections and grouted CemTies to reconnect the internal and external walls.

Cracked masonry walls

Depending on the cause of the cracking, HeliBars grouted into channelled-out slots cut across the crack and, typically, into the mortar joint will provide simple, permanent and non-disruptive stabilisation of the masonry.