Column Ties – Secure brickwork to structural columns in one twist

Steel and concrete columns make frames fast, but the outer leaf still needs lateral support. Column ties lock the masonry back to the frame while allowing vertical movement so panels remain crack-free for the building’s life. Spechunter carries the full Ancon range—ready to ship next working day.

Why column ties matter

• Lateral load resistance – wind actions on façades transfer safely to the primary structure.

• Movement accommodation – slotted holes or debonded sleeves accept ±23 mm of frame and brick differential.

• Thermal efficiency – stainless-steel profiles minimise thermal bridges at the column line.

Choosing the right tie

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Key features of our range

Stainless as standard

All column ties are Grade 304 stainless (316 available) for a 60-year design life—even in coastal or industrial zones.

Built-in safety offsets

Debonded sleeves or slot holes let brickwork settle without shearing the mortar.

CE / UKCA ready

Products are tested to BS EN 845-1 and PD 6697; declarations of performance ready for your Quality File.

Installation best practice

1. Set density – usually 2.5 ties /m²; double round openings within 450 mm.

2. Embed 50 ± 10 mm in the brick leaf; use insulation retaining clips if the tie crosses a rigid board.

3. Keep vertical tolerance – leave 5 mm above and below the slot or sleeve for expansion.

4. Seal penetration – for clamp-on ties, apply a dab of neutral silicone where the screw meets galvanised steel to prevent bimetallic staining.

Frequently asked questions

When do I need compression sleeves?

If the clear cavity exceeds 150 mm, add a compression sleeve to stop tie “whip” under wind suction.

Can I retrofit ties to an existing steel?

Yes—clamp-on ties drill directly into flanges; Briclok toggles suit SHS columns after fire-protection boards are fitted.

Are galvanised ties acceptable internally?

External leaf ties must be stainless. Galv may be used on protected internal brickwork only.

Next-day delivery—any catches?

Order before 12:00, meet the £200 ex-VAT threshold and check our delivery information for Highlands & Islands surcharges.

Build the perfect restraint package

• Head restraints above concrete slabs – Ancon IHR & FHR

• Movement joints – stainless movement ties with sleeves

• Bed-joint mesh – brick reinforcement to spread stresses

Need spacing calcs or load data? Contact us or call 0118 922 7941—Spechunter will chase down the spec for you.

Spechunter.co.uk – Chasing down specialist construction specifications since 1988. Fact checked and updated May 2025.