Hoop Iron

Scott White and Hookins have considerable expertise dealing with problems associated with Hoop Iron Reinforcement.

During the 1920's and the 1930's a number of properties throughout the UK were built using a solid metal strip to reinforce cavity walls along horizontal joints.

The reinforcement was generally inserted into end terrace properties, and into some next-to-end properties. This reinforcement was not laid along every joint, usually in the 4th or 6th joints.

Metal embedded in mortar is protected from the rain, but over time the pointing weathers and can breakdown and allow moisture onto the metal. The metal starts to rust.

All ferrous metals such as iron and steel have a tendency to rust when exposed to water. Rust occupies a greater volume than the parent metal, which can expand up to ten times its original thickness. This expansion, if sufficiently large, can crack the brick joints.

Our engineers have many years experience dealing with this problem, if you would like to find out more then please contact us.