PYRITE TESTING AND REMOVAL
FREE INSPECTION
OVER 15 YEARS OF EXPERTISE
Solex Expert: your go-to for pyrite testing and treatment
With many years of experience in foundations, drainage and excavation, Solex is recognized on the South Shore for the quality of its work and the durability of its solutions.
Our experts use certified methods, accurate diagnosis and premium materials to remove pyrite for good.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US
A MINERAL THAT THREATENS YOUR HOME'S STABILITY
What is pyrite?
Pyrite is a natural mineral made of iron sulfide. It is often found in certain stones used as fill under concrete slabs during construction.
When exposed to moisture and oxygen, pyrite oxidizes and reacts chemically, producing sulfuric acid and gypsum. This process causes the fill to expand, which exerts upward pressure on the concrete slab.
Although it is not a health hazard, pyrite poses a major risk to the stability of the house. Its presence can only be confirmed with a lab test, which analyzes a fill sample to measure its swelling potential (IPPG).
Once detected, the only lasting solution is to completely remove the contaminated fill and replace it with certified pyrite-free stone, ensuring the stability and durability of the foundation.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT A CRACK IN YOUR FOUNDATION?
Do you see an exterior foundation crack?
If you notice a crack on the exterior wall of your foundation, act quickly.
Start by inspecting the inside of your home for signs of moisture, stains, efflorescence or mold, which may indicate water infiltration. Next, assess the exterior crack by noting its width, its shape (vertical, horizontal or stair-step) and its location. Take a few clear photos to track its progression and help with the diagnosis.
Finally, contact Solex for a FREE inspection: our experts will analyze the situation in detail and recommend the best repair solution to protect your foundation for the long term.
A STRUCTURED PROCESS FOR LASTING DECONTAMINATION
Our complete 7-step pyrite treatment method
STEP 1: FREE inspection of pyrite-affected surfaces
A complete assessment of the floor, cracks and at-risk areas by a Solex expert.
STEP 2: Pyrite testing and lab diagnosis
Soil samples are analyzed in a laboratory to confirm the presence and level of pyrite.
STEP 3: Breaking up and excavating the contaminated area
Complete removal of the contaminated fill and preparation of the ground for new fill.
STEP 4: Drainage system installation and backfilling of the decontaminated area
Installation of a high-performance drainage system to remove water and reduce moisture. Certified pyrite-free materials are used for clean, stable fill.
STEP 5: Installation of polyethylene, rebar and formwork
A code-compliant structure is put in place to ensure strength and durability.
STEP 6: Pouring and finishing the concrete
A new slab is poured with an optimized slope toward the floor drains.
STEP 7: Curing time and complete site cleanup
Clean finishing and site restoration once the concrete has fully cured.
EXPERTISE, QUALITY AND TRUST
Why choose Solex?
Foundation and pyrite experts with over 15 years of experience and all required certifications
Proven methods and premium materials
Fast, safe service
Reliable lab testing
FREE inspection and complete diagnosis
Written warranty on all work
A LASTING SOLUTION FOR YOUR HOME'S STABILITY
The benefits of complete pyrite treatment
A complete pyrite treatment permanently eliminates the risk of floor heaving and cracks in the slab. By removing the contaminated fill and installing a new drainage system, the foundation regains its stability and benefits from better moisture management, reducing condensation and infiltration. This work ensures lasting stabilization of your structure and helps preserve your property’s value. With Solex , you get a written warranty and the peace of mind that comes with work done to the highest industry standards.
COMPLETE SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR FOUNDATION
Our other specialized foundation services
Exterior foundation cracks (with excavation)
Exterior foundation cracks (with excavation)
French drains
French drains
Camera inspection
Camera inspection
Pyrite
Pyrite
WHERE TO FIND US
Get the full benefit of our expertise!
We serve the Montérégie region and surrounding areas, including:
✓ Longueuil
✓ St-Jean-sur-Richelieu
✓ Châteauguay
✓ Saint-Hubert
✓ St-Bruno-de-Montarville
✓ Boucherville
✓ Brossard
✓ Salaberry-de-Valleyfield
✓ Saint-Hyacinthe
✓ Sorel-Tracy
✓ Vaudreuil-Dorion
✓ Sainte-Julie
✓ Candiac
✓ Saint-Lambert
✓ La Prairie
✓ Chambly
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT TODAY
Contact us for a FREE inspection!
Don’t let a crack put your home’s safety at risk. Contact Solex today for a free assessment. Our experts will offer a solution suited to your needs, with no hassle and no unnecessary costs.
EXPERT ANSWERS TO YOUR CONCERNS
Your most frequently asked questions about pyrite treatment
Pyrite is a mineral made of iron sulfide that is sometimes found in stones used as fill under concrete slabs.
In the presence of water and oxygen, pyrite oxidizes and swells. This swelling puts pressure on the concrete slab, causing cracks and heaving.
Only a lab analysis of a fill sample can confirm the presence of pyrite and its swelling potential.
- Star-shaped cracks in the basement or garage slab
- Uneven floor heaving
- Interior doors or walls shifting
- White efflorescence on the concrete
No. It can also be present under garage slabs, driveways or any structure built on contaminated fill.
No. Only certain quarries produce stone with a significant swelling potential.
No. Pyrite is not toxic to occupants. The danger is strictly structural for the house.
With a lab test (sampling of the fill under the slab) that determines the IPPG (Pyrite Swelling Potential Index).
It is a rating assigned by the laboratory:
- IPPG 0 to 10: low risk
- IPPG 11 to 20: moderate risk
- IPPG 21 and up: high risk of damage
No. Some cracks are caused by concrete shrinkage, soil movement or other causes. An expert assessment is needed to identify the source.
The slab may continue to crack, heave and weaken the structure, leading to higher repair costs over the long term.
Yes. The solution is to excavate and remove the contaminated fill, then replace it with certified pyrite-free stone. A new slab is then poured.
The price depends on the surface area and accessibility, but you should expect an average of $20,000 to $40,000 for a full basement.
In most cases, no. Home insurance policies consider pyrite a soil defect, which is not covered.
Yes. A home with a pyrite problem will generally sell for less, unless corrective work has been done with a certificate of compliance.
By using only DB-certified fill (pyrite-free) from approved quarries.