Brickwork / masonry is very strong in compression. Unfortunately it is very weak in tension. Wind loads impose bending moments in walls and this induces tensile stresses in the brickwork. In larger masonry panels this can lead to stability problems.

Most residential properties have sufficient internal walls and floors to brace the outer walls against wind loads. The walls on either side of the corners of a building also butress each other.

However situations arise, for example with large gable end walls or where the building has either an open interior or there is a door right at the corner, and in these situations a detailed analysis may be needed to satisfy the Building Regulations.

There are a number of solutions. The analysis may prove that the stability of the wall is satisfactory, this is often the case when there are one or more stories above the level of the wall being considered. If this is not the case then it is normally necessary to introduce a 'windpost' to provide lateral restraint to the wall.

We need the following information to check the lateral stability of a wall.

details of the relevant wall panel (length and height)

position and size of any openings in the wall (doors and windows)

details of the wall construction (eg brick and block cavity wall, solid brickwork wall)

corner details showing the length of wall at right angles to the wall being considered

details of any internal walls buttressing the outside wall

approximate location of the building

Design information

All design work is carried out in accordance with BS5628 (The structural use of masonry) and BS6399-2:1997 (Code of practice for wind loads)

The calculations provided will be suitable for Building Regulation approval.

Please note that if the analysis justifies the wall panel is satisfactory, then no alterations to the building or additional calculations will need to be made. However, if the analysis shows that the wall needs additional lateral restraint, then the 'wind post design option will also be required.