How Does a Wall Anchor Work?

Wall anchors, also known as foundation wall anchors, are used to stabilize bowing walls and prevent further movement. They work by transferring the lateral pressure from the wall to a more stable structure, usually the foundation.

Here's how a typical wall anchor works:

1. Wall Plate Installation: A metal wall plate is attached to the interior surface of the bowing wall. The plate is typically made of galvanized steel and is secured with Tapcons or other suitable fasteners.

2. Earth Anchors: Outside the wall, earth anchors are installed. These anchors are typically long galvanized steel rods with a helical design that allows them to be screwed deep into the stable soil beyond the movement zone.

3. Connection to Wall Plate: The earth anchors are then connected to the wall plate using steel rods. These rods, called tiebacks or wall anchor rods, are typically made of high-strength steel and designed to resist tension.

4. Tensioning: Once the earth anchors are connected to the wall plate, they are tensioned using a hydraulic tensioner. This process pulls the wall back to a vertical position and straightens the bowing. The tension is carefully adjusted to ensure the wall is stable and the structural integrity is maintained.

5. Corrosion Protection: The entire wall anchor system, including the wall plate, earth anchors, and tiebacks, is typically coated with a protective material such as epoxy or polyurethane to prevent corrosion and ensure long-term performance.

6. Monitoring and Maintenance: After installation, wall anchors are periodically monitored to ensure they are functioning correctly and maintaining the stability of the wall. In some cases, additional adjustments or maintenance may be necessary over time.

Wall anchors are an effective and widely used method for stabilizing bowed foundation walls. They work by creating a strong structural connection between the wall and the stable soil, preventing further movement and potential structural damage to the property.