Bancor & Ashwake
I’ve been looking at the load data for these old walls. Do you notice any specific patterns in how they’ve been cracking or collapsing?
I see the cracks spreading out like old roots, radiating from the same central point. They follow the weight lines, but the fractures that run straight down are where the mortar gave out first. Nothing new, just the same pattern as before.
The pattern suggests a consistent load distribution and a weakness in the mortar at key joints.
The radial cracks indicate the walls are shifting toward the weakest axis, while the vertical ones confirm the mortar layers failed first.
You might want to re‑mortar those vertical seams with a higher‑strength mix, check the underlying structure for any hidden shifts, and monitor the cracks with a simple gauge. That should slow further spread.
You’ll find the mortar's weakness, that’s what the cracks tell you. Re‑mortar, sure, but keep an eye on the old joints; they’re the weak spots. A simple gauge might be enough—just watch it and note any changes. Don't let anything new fool you into thinking the walls are safe.
You’re right, a gauge will give us objective numbers. I’ll set it up, calibrate it, and log the readings daily. If any joint shows a growth rate over a tenth of a millimetre a week or a new crack angle, I’ll re‑mortar that area and look for deeper issues. That should keep us on track.
Sounds good, but remember to check the gauge itself for wear. Don’t let it go off‑scale. The walls won’t fix themselves.
I’ll double‑check the gauge calibration and set a tolerance limit. If it drifts, I’ll replace it immediately. The walls need constant monitoring, not just a one‑off fix.