Wall cracks are common symptoms of pyrite
Cracking on walls, around door and window frames, and in floors is a common sign that the pyrite in your building materials is reacting and expanding.
But cracks can be caused by a host of other structural issues, and finding the right solution to your home’s problems starts with correct identification from the beginning.
It’s easy to ignore the signs of pyrite decay and overwhelming to think of their consequences, but getting accurate information about the cracks in your home is the first step towards a plan of remediation.
When you work with us, you empower yourself to address your home’s issues. A reliable pyrite test, backed up by accredited scientific data, allows you to understand the problems behind the cracks and consider your repair options.
We’ll help you confirm the presence of pyrite so you can make informed decisions about the safety and future of your home.
Identify the pyrite in your home
VERTICAL CRACKING
HORIZONTAL CRACKING
WEB-LIKE CRACKING
WINDOW AND DOOR DISPLACEMENT
PAINT DISPLACEMENT
When you work with us, we’ll start by inspecting the images of your home’s cracks and problems online. We’ll then visit your home to extract masonry samples. We provide initial results within three–five weeks, followed by an engineer’s report including full laboratory analysis of core samples within 8–12 weeks.
Get straight answers to scary questions
When you work with us, you’re choosing information rather than denial. Action rather than fear.
We know that the possibility of pyrite in your home is scary. We also know that after sleepless nights and worry about your home’s future, you deserve straight answers to those scary questions.
We’ll inspect photos of your cracks and heaving. If they suggest the presence of pyritic building materials, we’ll analyse the property in person and take samples for laboratory testing.
You’ll get honest answers within weeks of inspection, so you can know the truth about your home and explore your options.
Frequently asked questions
WHAT IS PYRITE?
Pyrite or Iron Pyrite (FeS2) is a mineral commonly found in aggregate rocks in Ireland. Under certain environmental conditions such as exposure to moisture and oxygen, pyrite crystals expand. Concrete blocks used in construction have been found to contain unsafe amounts of pyrite, meaning the very building blocks of these homes are likely to swell and crumble. In our wet Irish climate, pyrite-heavy cement blocks are destroying Irish homes.
ARE ALL CONCRETE BLOCKS AFFECTED?
Certain areas of the country are more heavily affected, namely Dublin, Mayo, Louth, Meath, Kildare, Westmeath, Wicklow, Limerick, Offaly, and Clare. If a home was constructed between 1995 and the present day in a county we have mentioned, it may contain pyrite.
ARE NEW CONCRETE BLOCKS AFFECTED BY PYRITE?
It’s possible. Though concrete block manufacturers are required to have conformance certificates, the question remains of what rigorous testing in the form of Petrographic Analysis was carried out on the products.