This paper summarises the first author’s PhD thesis and focuses on the newly proposed crack width model denoted Simplified Modified Tension Chord Model (SMTCM) as a new design code formulation. The more comprehensive Modified Tension Chord Model (MTCM) has been simplified to facilitate an alternative method to Eurocode 2 and fib Model Codes. To justify the SMTCM code formulation and concept, an extensive database with experimental crack widths and several RC ties with experimental crack width profiles were used and discussed. The results show a considerable difference between the crack width at the surface and at the reinforcement location, depending on the concrete cover and rebar size. These observations are interesting regarding durability design and requirements and show that the approach using a maximum design crack width at a specific surface as a decisive parameter should be further investigated, especially for large concrete covers. In general, SMTCM predicts crack widths that are close to reality, as the MTCM has previously been proven to yield more realistic crack width predictions than the investigated design codes. The methods in the design codes seem to have a limited range of application, specifically to the stabilized cracking region. It is shown that a more mechanically founded model is needed for general cases and that both the MTCM and SMTCM provide better solutions than the code formulations in several cases due to their more consistent mechanical basis.