How to Join a New Wall to Existing Brickwork

Whether it’s an extension, garden wall or another project, there are many reasons why a property owner may want more walls added to the existing brickwork.

Builders generally have two go-to methods for adding walls to existing properties: a traditional approach and a more straightforward option involving wall ties. However, there are positives and negatives to each, so which is right for each property can vary.

Joining a New Wall to Existing Brickwork: The Common Methods

The two main ways to add a new all to an existing one are:

1. Wall Starter Kits: Metal ties that create an attachment between the existing masonry and the new wall being built.
2. Toothing: Removing alternate bricks from existing masonry and replacing them with new bricks as part of the new wall.

When both of these methods are done right, they both create a reliable, strong hold that ensures loads are properly distributed. However, there are a few different reasons why people might choose one method over the other.

How Wall Starters Work: Pros and Cons

Wall starters are simple pieces of kit, usually made of stainless steel strips and ties, which attach to the existing masonry wall. The new wall is then constructed where the wall starter system is fitted, creating an attachment between the old and new walls.

A wall starter kit is generally the standard method for adding a new wall to existing brickwork because of its simplicity compared to the more traditional toothing method. While toothing involves carefully removing existing brickwork, a wall starter can simply attach itself to what’s already there.

One downside of wall starters is that they don’t always create as clean a finish between the new and existing wall as you get when toothing, as that method fully bonds both walls together. However, when done well, wall starter kits can still create a seamless finish.

How Toothing Out Works: Pros and Cons

The traditional method of adding a new wall to an existing one is called ‘toothing out’. This involves removing alternative bricks from the existing wall (creating the appearance of teeth) and then replacing those bricks with the new wall.

When toothing, the new wall becomes a physical part of the old one. When done well, this can be great not only from a structural perspective but also in terms of appearance, creating a seamless finish between the old and new walls, which can be particularly useful when trying to continue cavity walls.

The downside of toothing is that it’s much more labour-intensive. Unlike wall starters that attach to the existing wall, toothing involves partially deconstructing the wall, which requires expert care and attention.

Other Things to Consider When Adding a Wall to Existing Brickwork

Whether wall starter kits or toothing is the best approach will come down to the property and the owner's priorities. If outward appearance is more important than anything (for example, if the owner is expecting to sell), then owners may be more willing to pay extra for the toothing approach. However, in many cases, the ease and reduced cost of wall starters will make them more appropriate.

Of course, as with most extension work, you’ll also have to consider building regulation requirements, particularly around issues such as cavity walls and damp-proof course. Ensure you’ve consulted with bodies such as the local council to ensure the approach you choose is acceptable according to the regulations.