Polyurethane foam void filling, also called polyjacking, is a revolutionary approach to maintaining the structural integrity of buildings subjected to foundation settlement and soil voids. This method addresses foundation issues caused by erosion, settling, and water leakage. Learn the basics of polyurethane foam void filling to understand how this repair method saves time and money on long-term foundation stabilization.
Understanding Voids
Soil voids are empty spaces or gaps within the soil. They can impact the stability and load-bearing capacity of the soil, and depending on where they form, they can potentially lead to issues like sinkholes, foundation settlement, or water drainage problems. Addressing and filling soil voids helps to maintain the integrity of structures built on or near the affected soil and prevent potential hazards or structural failures.
Erosion, soil settling, and water leakage can create soil voids. When it comes to foundation damage, gaps under the foundation can cause cracks in walls, uneven settling, sloping floors, structural instability, and even collapse. It’s crucial to address these voids promptly to maintain the integrity and safety of the structure. An effective solution should include filling the voids and stabilizing the foundation to prevent future damage.
Polyurethane Foam, a Versatile Solution
Polyurethane foam is a popular choice for void filling due to its versatility and effectiveness. It can fill gaps, voids, and cavities of various sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of applications in both residential and commercial settings. Its ability to conform to the shape of the void ensures a thorough and complete fill.
In addition to its versatility, polyurethane foam offers durability and longevity. It can withstand various environmental conditions—including changes in soil moisture levels— without deteriorating. This ensures the void remains filled and makes polyjacking a cost-effective repair service for long-term foundation stability.
Expansion Properties
One of the standout features of polyurethane foam is that it expands to fill voids. The foam starts out as a two-part liquid. Right after injection into the soil, the two parts of the polymer react and generate gas that causes the foam to expand and aggregate soil. The structural strength of the foam is great enough to lift and stabilize the foundation while improving the soil’s weight-bearing capacity.
Optimizing the soil’s weight-bearing capacity improves the stability and longevity of structures built on that soil. URETEK’s void-filling services not only stop current problems but also prevent future settling, which would otherwise lead to costly repairs and safety concerns. The expansive foam fills voids, crevices, and gaps while minimizing future soil movement.
Fast and Non-Invasive
Polyjacking is a quick and non-invasive repair method. The URETEK Method and our patented polyurethane foam work together to give you a quick, long-lasting repair.
After assessing your repair needs, a URETEK technician will drill the injection sites, which are small, 5/8” holes in the concrete. Then, the technician will inject the polymer until the foam brings the slab to a more level plane. The fast expansion gives the technician greater control of the repair process through real-time monitoring while improving levelness.
After injecting the polymer, the technician will regrout the holes. Within 15 minutes of application, the foam reaches 90 percent of its strength. In most cases, you can resume normal use of the area once our technicians clear out!
Benefits of Small Injection Sites
Those penny-sized holes are all it takes to give the foam access to the underlying soil voids! In comparison, mudjacking can require 1/2” to 3”-diameter holes. Some repair methods require excavation of the affected area, which can be disruptive, time-consuming, and costly.
The non-invasive nature of polyjacking means that the surrounding landscape and structures remain largely unaffected. This is particularly beneficial for properties with landscaping or hardscaping features that you want to preserve. Additionally, the speed at which the process concludes allows for immediate use of the repaired area.
Durable and Long-Lasting Restoration
When applied professionally, polyurethane foam void filling is incredibly durable and long-lasting. This material expands to fill voids and gaps, providing structural stability and support. Once cured, it maintains its integrity over time, ensuring a lasting solution to soil void problems.
One of the must-know characteristics of URETEK’s patented polyurethane foam is that it is hydrophobic. Water levels in soil fluctuate, and the foam’s ability to withstand water changes ensures the integrity of the fill over time. The foam resists degradation and displacement due to moisture exposure, so it can continue protecting your property from below for decades.
Cost-Effective
Non-invasive polyjacking minimizes the labor, time, and material expenses associated with traditional approaches. By creating small injection holes instead of extensive digging, polyjacking preserves landscaping and minimizes disruption to the surrounding area. This not only saves on immediate repair costs but also minimizes downtime and additional restoration expenses, making it practical for addressing concrete slab issues or soil voids.
Void filling offers many more great benefits you won’t want to miss out on!
- Provides cost savings
- Reduces the need for frequent maintenance and repairs down the line
- Extends the lifespan of your property
Professional Application
Hire professionals for polyurethane foam void filling to ensure proper installation. Experienced teams have the right equipment and knowledge to give you the best results. They also adhere to the safety protocols of their industry, minimizing potential issues during and after the application.
Professional applications from reputable workers guarantee a job well done. Whether you have a commercial or residential soil void problem, URETEK technicians can inject the polyurethane where needed to improve the soil’s weight-bearing capacity and the foundation’s levelness. You can enjoy doors that open and close smoothly, even flooring, and the peace of mind of knowing the stabilized structure is safe.
Polyurethane foam void filling offers a great solution for addressing soil voids and foundation issues, combining effectiveness with cost-efficiency. The fast, non-invasive injection application process minimizes downtime and disruption, making it a practical choice for many property owners. The material’s durability under varying environmental conditions ensures long-term stability and structural support. URETEK’s experienced professionals will provide optimal results, making polyurethane foam repair a smart investment.