1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to construction tools, and more particularly to a tool used to brace a masonry or other walls during construction.
2. Description of the Related Art
It is well known that until a masonry wall is permanently supported, it is unstable and can fall, especially if wind loads on it are substantial. Thus, during the construction process braces and other devices are used to support the walls until the building is completed or the walls are at least self-supporting. Many devices used for supporting masonry walls are cumbersome and heavy, and they only adjust to walls that are certain heights, require forklifts or several laborers to install, require extra space to store and use parts that are only useful for one particular purpose. Thus, when a wall supporting apparatus is being installed, there is very little flexibility as to how these braces can be installed.
Additionally, existing wall bracing devices are made in certain sizes that are not flexible for use by contractors. Contractors must purchase different length braces for different wall heights. The bracing devices also have end pieces that are fixed to the poles, thereby making the bracing device suitable only to install after the wall is built and not while the wall is being constructed. Furthermore, since most bracing devices are long enough to be installed at high points in the wall, such as heights above 10′, they are conventionally too long and cumbersome to be transported easily.
The need exists for a wall bracing apparatus with parts that are easily adaptable to any height and for use in many circumstances, thereby eliminating searching effort, simplifying the installation process, and making the apparatus easily transported and stored when the apparatus is not being used.