Choosing the Right Wall Tie: PROSOCO Stitch-Tie vs. Stitch-Tie Asymmetric
WHEN TO USE A STANDARD STITCH-TIE VS. AN ASYMMETRIC WALL TIE IN MASONRY RESTORATION
When restoring existing masonry facades, using the correct wall tie is critical for both structural stability and long-term performance. PROSOCO offers two standout solutions for re-anchoring masonry to backup structures: the Stitch-Tie® and the Stitch-Tie Asymmetric. While they look similar at a glance, their differences are essential — and knowing when to use each one can save time, prevent failure, and improve finish quality.
WHAT IS A STITCH-TIE?
The PROSOCO Stitch-Tie is a stainless steel helical pin used to retrofit and re-anchor existing brick, stone, block, or precast facades to their backup structure. These ties are inserted into pilot holes in the veneer and backup wall, providing mechanical connection without adhesives, cure time, or surface disruption.
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Best for general retrofit applications
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Works in all weather
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Ideal for brick, block, stone, and precast
Because it doesn’t add tension between wythes and leaves minimal surface scarring, it’s ideal for historic preservation, repair of failed ties, or restoring facades with no need for tear-down.
WHEN TO USE THE STITCH-TIE ASYMMETRIC
The Stitch-Tie Asymmetric was designed to tackle a common challenge in retrofit anchoring: mismatched substrate hardness.
For example, if you're re-anchoring a soft brick veneer to a hard concrete backup, using a traditional 8mm or 10mm tie can mean drilling large pilot holes into the concrete — which often compromises the softer masonry in the process. The Asymmetric Tie solves this with:
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A small-diameter end (2"–3") for hard backup like concrete or CMU
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A larger-diameter helical end (8mm or 10mm) for softer veneers
This dual-diameter design ensures better grip, less drilling, and optimized performance on both ends — especially in multi-wythe walls or mixed-material retrofits.
COMPARISON AT A GLANCE
| Feature | Stitch-Tie | Stitch-Tie Asymmetric |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Type 304 Stainless Steel | Type 304 Stainless Steel |
| Weather Use | All weather | All weather |
| Installation | Dry-set, no adhesive | Dry-set, no adhesive |
| Veneer Types | Brick, stone, block, precast | Brick, stone, block, precast |
| Backup Material | Standard (wood, CMU, brick) | Harder materials (concrete, dense CMU) |
| Pilot Hole Size | Standard diameter | Small diameter in hard backup |
| Visible Scars | Minimal | Minimal |
| Special Tools | Economy or spring-loaded setting tool | Rotary hammer with economy or spring-loaded setting tool |
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you’re working with standard masonry conditions, the Stitch-Tie is your go-to for speed and simplicity. But if your project involves hard concrete backup and softer facades, the Stitch-Tie Asymmetric is the better long-term solution — delivering better load performance without compromising the facade.
Need help choosing the right tie for your job? Contact us — our team at Masonry Direct can help you get the right tools and guidance for your next retrofit project.