Foundation problems are common over time due to issues such as natural settling, expansive soils that shift with moisture changes, and poor drainage. A shifting foundation can cause problems, such as cracks in walls, misaligned doors and windows, and uneven floors that can reduce a property’s value and safety. Overlooking these problems and delaying repairs can cause more severe complications down the line.
Foundation specialists can present a variety of foundation repair solutions, including polyurethane injection, also known as polyjacking, and interior pilings. While every property requires its own assessment, the benefits of polyurethane slab repair over interior pilings make it the superior option in most cases.
A Quick Overview of Both Repair Processes
A general understanding of the two foundation repair processes will make their unique advantages more apparent. Polyurethane foam slab repair involves injecting a structural-grade polyurethane foam mixture into small holes drilled into the concrete. The two-part foam mixture undergoes a chemical reaction that causes the foam to expand under the slab, fill voids in the soil, and lift the concrete to a more level position. After applying the foam, the technician fills in the small injection sites.
In contrast, installing interior pilings requires excavating beneath the foundation. After digging, work crews stack piles—cylinders of concrete or metal—deep into the stable soil beneath the foundation. The crew secures the foundation to the piles after pushing them as deep into the soil as they will go. Clean-up involves refilling the excavation site and trying to restore the affected landscape to its former condition.
Fast Installation
Polyurethane slab repair is significantly faster than installing interior pilings. The process of injecting the foam and allowing it to set is quick; crews often complete the task within a day. In contrast, installing interior pilings requires extensive groundwork and can take several days to complete.
Additionally, URETEK’s patented foundation repair foam cures to 90 percent in 15 minutes. Because of the speedy installation and cure time, you can reuse the treated area sooner than with other repair methods.
Accuracy
Polyjacking isn’t just fast; it also reliably brings the sunken concrete to the required specifications. Polyurethane foam is an effective material due to its predictable expansion properties, allowing for a controlled lift with an accuracy of up to one-tenth of an inch.
The foam’s ability to expand uniformly ensures an even weight distribution, minimizing the risk of over-lifting or damage to the surrounding area. Technicians space out the injection sites to maintain accuracy. They also use a high-precision altimeter that provides real-time measurements to ensure the concrete reaches the desired height.
Less Disruption
Polyurethane slab repair minimizes disruption to daily activities, making it a highly convenient choice. The process involves drilling small holes, about the size of a penny, into the concrete and injecting the foam into the space underneath the concrete. This method is far less invasive than installing interior pilings, which require extensive excavation and can disrupt the entire foundation.
The disruption from foundation repair isn’t just about accessing the area under the slab. Noise pollution can make it difficult for occupants to maintain their regular routines, as the noise can be disruptive and stressful. One of the significant benefits of polyurethane slab repair over interior pilings is that it’s the quietest foundation repair method. It doesn’t require noisy excavation, heavy machinery, or large work crews.
For residential and commercial properties alike, minimal disruption is a significant advantage. Homeowners can continue their daily routines without the noise, dust, and mess associated with more invasive repairs. Businesses can maintain their operations without losing productivity, making polyurethane slab repair a win-win for everyone.
Versatility
One of the standout features of polyurethane slab repair is its versatility. This method is excellent for leveling concrete slabs, including uneven sidewalks, fractured concrete, settled slabs, and sinking driveways. Construction crews can use it in various settings, from residential homes to commercial buildings and even industrial facilities.
Fixing the foundation enhances the building’s structural integrity and can improve or safeguard its overall aesthetic appeal. Stabilizing concrete prevents more cracks from forming and makes areas, such as walkways, safer. Additionally, making the slab more level makes the house or commercial building more attractive to potential buyers or tenants. Timely repairs can prevent further damage, reducing long-term repair costs and extending the foundation’s lifespan.
In contrast to the versatile applications and benefits of polyjacking, pilings are best for use on foundation corners and perimeters. Installing pilings can be challenging in locations with limited access or poor soil conditions, which raises the cost of the repair and extends the timeline.
URETEK’s Polymer Is Environmentally Inert
URETEK’s polyurethane foam has a variety of applications in part because it is environmentally inert, as verified by the material’s NSF/ANSI 61 certificate. Crews can apply the foam up to 20 feet below ground level, and it won’t leach harmful chemicals into the surrounding soil or groundwater.
Our polymer is also hydrophobic, which means it repels water. This feature makes the foam more robust, so it can support the foundation’s stability even as moisture levels in the soil vary.
Substantial Savings
Polyurethane slab repair is often more cost-effective than installing interior pilings due to the reduced labor and material costs. Since polyjacking is quicker and simpler, it requires fewer technicians and fewer hours to complete, thereby lowering the overall labor expenses. Additionally, the minimal materials needed for the injection process further contribute to cost savings.
Another factor enhancing the cost-effectiveness of polyjacking is the reduced disruption to daily activities, which decreases potential losses in productivity. The excavation required for installing interior pilings can disrupt business operations or necessitate temporary relocation for residents, leading to additional costs. In contrast, polyjacking’s rapid and non-invasive procedure allows a swift return to normalcy.
Polyjacking is a preferable foundation solution compared to interior pilings thanks to its swift, accurate, and non-invasive application. This straightforward repair method does not require extensive labor or heavy machinery, translating to substantial savings. URETEK’s environmentally inert foam predictably expands, making it an effective method for stabilizing concrete in a variety of applications. Contact us to set up a free consultation.