Alchatek Blog

Sunken and uneven sidewalks are a common problem that can create trip hazards. Luckily, there's a fast and effective solution: sidewalk leveling using high-strength polyurethane foam. This innovative technique can raise sidewalks back to their proper height with minimal disruption and downtime compared to concrete replacement.

The Problems with Sunken Sidewalks

Sidewalk slabs can sink and settle over time due to various factors. For instance, poor drainage or leaking pipes can cause soil erosion and instability. Additionally, construction crews may poorly compact soil and backfill, leading to settling. Furthermore, buried organic material can biologically decay, also contributing to the problem. Consequently, these issues ultimately result in uneven, hazardous walking surfaces that endanger pedestrians. Traditionally, fixing sunken sidewalks required demolishing and re-pouring the concrete - a costly, time-consuming process.

How Sidewalk Leveling with Polyurethane Works

However, polyurethane concrete leveling contractors offer a much simpler alternative. The process involves several steps. First, contractors drill small holes in the sunken slabs. Next, they inject expandable polyurethane foam underneath. As the foam expands, it raises and levels the slabs. Finally, they patch the drill holes for a seamless appearance.

The injected foam fills any voids, compacts loose soil, and provides a stable base to support the concrete. Moreover, contractors can achieve precise lifting for a perfectly level slab. The foam reaches 90% strength within 15 minutes, allowing contractors to put sidewalks back into service on the same day in most cases.

The Advantages of Polyurethane Concrete Leveling

Compared to tearing out and replacing concrete, polyurethane slab leveling offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it is faster, with contractors completing many jobs in a day or two. Secondly, it is more affordable, providing significant savings versus replacement. Thirdly, it is less disruptive, requiring no heavy equipment or excavation. Additionally, the cured foam is stronger than bedrock, ensuring a longer-lasting solution. Lastly, Alchatek is NSF-certified to comply with strict environmental standards.

Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for a contractor referral today!

When fixing sunken or uneven concrete slabs, homeowners have a few options: repair with polyurethane, repair with mudjacking material, or replace the slab. Both polyurethane and mudjacking material lift and stabilize affected slabs without the need for complete demolition and replacement. However, notable differences exist between these approaches in price, effectiveness, and longevity. The cost of concrete leveling depends on these factors. 

Polyurethane Concrete Leveling vs Mudjacking

Polyurethane concrete leveling contractors inject a liquid resin beneath the sunken slab. The resin expands into a foam, solidifies the soil, and lifts the slab. As a result, polyurethane forms a strong bond with the concrete underside, creating a durable support base that prevents future erosion.

On the other hand, mudjacking contractors pump a cement slurry under the sunken slab to push it back up. While the dried cement provides support, it doesn't adhere to the concrete as effectively as polyurethane. Over time, the cement may settle or wash away, requiring repeated applications. Furthermore, mudjacking requires heavier equipment and longer curing times.

Concrete Leveling vs Replacement

The choice between polyurethane leveling and full replacement depends on your slab's condition. Multiple cracked sections across the entire surface may call for replacement. Conversely, isolated sinking of mostly intact slabs may suit lifting better. In general, polyurethane concrete leveling is less invasive and less expensive than complete replacement.

The Cost of Concrete Leveling

When estimating concrete leveling job costs, contractors consider a few key factors:

• Size of the Slab: Larger areas may require more material and labor. In contrast, smaller areas may be more straightforward.
  
  
• Extent of the Damage: The level of cracking and sinking determines the most appropriate repair method. Minor issues may suit polyurethane leveling, while extensive damage might require additional repairs or replacement.
  
  
• Condition of the Soil: A thorough evaluation of the soil beneath sunken slabs will reveal underlying issues contributing to the problem. These findings help determine the best action for a stable, long-lasting repair.

A professional contractor can provide options and help you make an informed decision. They will find an effective and efficient solution for your specific situation.

Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for a contractor referral today!

Want more information on concrete leveling?

Deep Lock® is an innovative process developed by Alchatek that utilizes high-quality structural polymers to address deep soil issues. This powerful, painless, and rapid solution stabilizes soil at all levels, ensuring long-lasting results with minimal disruption to the property. This article profiles the two main types of Deep Lock® soil stabilization work and the specific situations in which each type is most effective.

Jobs Requiring One Component Grouts (AP Fill 700 and AP Fill 720)

One-component grouts, such as AP Fill 700 and AP Fill 720, are used for permeation grouting. Permeation grouting involves injecting a low-viscosity grout to saturate loose soil and, upon curing, create a solid, stable mass. This type of Deep Lock® work is ideal for the following situations:

• Loose Soil: When dealing with loose, unstable soil, permeation grouting can effectively bind the soil particles together, creating a stronger foundation.
  
  
• Curtain Walls: One component grouts are often used to create subsurface barriers, or curtain walls, to prevent water infiltration or contain contaminants.
  
  
• Zero-Point Excavation: In cases where excavation is not feasible or desirable, permeation grouting can be used to stabilize the soil without disturbing the surface.

Jobs Requiring Two Component Structural Polymers (AP Lift 430, AP Lift 440, and AP Lift 475)

Two-component structural polymers, like AP Lift 430, AP Lift 440, and AP Lift 475, are used for compaction grouting. Compaction grouting involves injecting a highly viscous grout under pressure to compact and displace the surrounding soil. This type of Deep Lock® work is best suited for the following situations:

• Hard Clay Soils: Two-component structural polymers are effective in densifying and strengthening hard clay soils, which can be challenging to treat with other methods.
• Non-Sand/Silt Mix: When the soil composition is not primarily sand or silt, compaction grouting with two component polymers is often the most effective solution.
• Lifting Involved: If lifting of the structure or surface is desired, two component structural polymers are the ideal choice. These polymers expand after injection, providing controlled lifting force.

Two-component structural polymers offer more versatility than one-component grouts, as they can address a wider range of soil types and provide the added benefit of controlled lifting.

A Versatile Process for Soil Stabilization Work

The Deep Lock® process, with its range of high-quality structural polymers, provides a powerful and efficient solution for addressing deep soil issues. By understanding the specific characteristics of one-component grouts and two-component structural polymers, contractors can select the most appropriate approach for each unique situation. Whether dealing with loose soil, hard clay, or the need for controlled lifting, Deep Lock® has the tools and expertise to deliver rapid, long-lasting results with minimal disruption to the property. Alchatek's soil stabilization polymers are NSF-certified for contact with potable water. This means they meet the EPA's strict environmental standards as defined in the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).

Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for assistance today!

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

 

Essential Details

Dates/Pricing

Slab Lifting Masterclass: April 15th & 16th, 2024 – $685.00
Public Works Infrastructure Repair: April 18th & 19th, 2024 – $685.00

Location

Spray Foam Systems
1502 Airport Rd.
Greensboro, GA 30642
Click Here for Directions

Discount

Register for both classes and get a 25% discount

Slab Lifting Masterclass: April 15th & 16th, 2024 – $685.00

The concrete lifting master is an intensive opportunity to learn what it takes to start a concrete lifting business and then take it to the next level. The training you will receive will include Safety, Site Evaluation, Estimating, Product Selection, Sales, Equipment, Concrete Lifting Techniques, and Deep Lift / Deep Lock. You will also learn about taking your concrete lifting business to the next level. You will learn about other tools we have to help you land bigger jobs and how to engage the engineering community to gain access to unique markets. Join the industry’s top team of concrete lifting professionals for training, learning, and fun.

Public Works: April 18th & 19th, 2024 – $685.00

The public works course is two days dedicated to training and teaching Public Works professionals and specialty grouting contractors. You will learn how to utilize polyurethane technology to solve problems that municipalities and public works departments commonly face and how to do it at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. There will be a heavy emphasis on sealing underground infrastructure and stabilizing and lifting roads. We will cover the full spectrum of our product line including Leak Seal, Permeation, Soil Stabilization, and Slab Lifting. Join the industry’s top team of infrastructure specialists for training, learning, and fun.

Sunken concrete slabs in your driveway can be a frustrating and unsightly problem. Not only do they detract from your home's curb appeal, but they can also create safety hazards for vehicles and pedestrians. Fortunately, there are effective ways to repair sunken slabs and restore your driveway to its original smooth, level surface. It’s essential to understand how to repair a sunken driveway properly.

Understanding the Problem

Sunken concrete slabs occur when the ground beneath the driveway settles or erodes over time. This can be due to a variety of factors, including:

• The weight of vehicles repeatedly driving over the same area
• Water seeping underneath and washing away the soil
• Poor soil compaction or preparation during the original installation

As the support below the concrete deteriorates, sections of the driveway begin to sink, dip, and crack. If left unaddressed, the problem will only worsen, leading to further damage and potential trip hazards.

Repair Options: Concrete Leveling vs. Replacement

When faced with sunken driveway slabs, homeowners have two main options: level the affected concrete or replace the entire driveway. The best approach depends on the extent and severity of the sinking, as well as budget and timeline considerations.

For isolated areas where the slabs are still mostly intact, concrete leveling using polyurethane foam injection can be an effective solution. This process involves pumping expanding polyurethane beneath the sunken sections to lift and stabilize them back to their original position. The foam fills any voids, solidifies the soil, and adheres to the underside of the concrete for support.

Polyurethane leveling offers several advantages vs. replacement, including:

• Minimal equipment needed, minimizing disruption to your property
• Fast curing time, allowing for a quick return to use
• Resistance to water and further erosion, helping to prevent future sinking

On the other hand, if the sinking is widespread and the concrete is severely cracked or deteriorated, a full driveway replacement may be necessary. This involves demolishing and removing the old slabs, preparing a new stable base, and pouring fresh concrete. Replacement is typically more expensive than polyurethane leveling and requires more extensive equipment and labor. The process also takes longer, which can be an inconvenience for homeowners. 

Ultimately, the decision between polyurethane leveling and replacement depends on the specific condition of your driveway and your individual needs. It's important to consult with a professional contractor who can assess your situation and provide guidance on the most appropriate solution for your home.

Hiring a Professional Concrete Leveling Contractor

• It’s important to hire an experienced contractor who specializes in concrete repair. Look for a company with:
• Extensive experience using polyurethane injection for leveling
• Manufacturer-trained technicians who follow safety protocols
• Positive references and reviews from past customers
• The ability to provide before and after photos of successful projects

A reliable professional will have the expertise to assess your specific situation and recommend the best course of action for your driveway.

How to Repair a Sunken Driveway: Getting Started

If you're ready to tackle your sunken driveway slabs, Alchatek is here to help. As a leading manufacturer in the construction industry, Alchatek specializes in innovative solutions for concrete leveling and repair. Our expert team can provide guidance on your project and connect you with a qualified local contractor.

Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for a contractor referral today!

Want more information on slab lifting with polyurethane?

While Alchatek's Deep Lock® process is primarily used on deep soil stabilization jobs, there are specific situations in which deep soil stabilization may be needed to reinforce soil on slab lifting jobs. In cases where slabs are bearing heavy loads, have significantly loose soil underneath, or are located in areas where access is limited, incorporating the Deep Lock® process can help address the underlying soil stability issues. With the addition of the Deep Lock® soil stabilization process, contractors can achieve effective, minimally invasive slab lifting results while simultaneously improving the long-term stability of the foundation.

Slab Lifting for Heavy-Duty Environments

The Deep Lock® process is particularly well-suited for slabs that regularly bear heavy loads, such as:

• Factory floors
• Forklift ramps
• Loading areas
• Fire stations
• Airport runways
• Launchpads

In these high-traffic, heavy-duty environments, soil erosion, poor compaction, and biological decay can lead to slab settling and instability over time. Traditional methods of soil stabilization often fail to address deeper soil issues and can require extensive excavation, heavy equipment, and prolonged downtime.

Deep Lock®, on the other hand, gets to the root of the problem by stabilizing the soil at all levels beneath the slab. The process involves thorough site evaluation, saw cutting of joints if necessary, and the strategic injection of AP Lift structural polymers through small holes drilled in the slab. The expansive properties of the foam fill voids, compact loose soil, and lift the slab back to its original level position.

Soil Stabilization and Slab Lifting for Loose Soil Conditions

This process is also ideal for slabs with significantly loose soil underneath, where erosion or poor compaction has created unstable conditions. By permeating and densifying the soil with AP Lift polymers, contractors using this Deep Lock® process create a strong, stable substrate that can support the slab for decades to come.

Minimally Invasive Slab Lifting for Sensitive or Inaccessible Areas

Another key advantage of applying the Deep Lock® process is the ability to address slab issues in sensitive or inaccessible areas, such as in historical buildings where drilling from the inside is not possible. Because the process involves minimal drilling and can be performed entirely from the exterior, it offers a non-invasive solution for preserving and rehabilitating delicate structures.

Deep Soil Stabilization on Slab Lifting Jobs

Alchatek's Deep Lock® process provides a comprehensive solution for slab lifting and soil stabilization, with powerful results, painless procedures, and rapid return to service. For any slab that regularly bears heavy loads, has significantly loose soil underneath, or requires a minimally invasive approach, Deep Lock® offers a cutting-edge alternative to traditional repair methods. In addition, most Alchatek polymers are NSF-certified for contact with potable water. This approval verifies that the product complies with the strict environmental regulations established by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).

Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for assistance today!

Want more information on the Deep Lock® process?

The Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE) builds and manages numerous projects along the rivers and waterways of the United States. On our mightiest river, the Mississippi, the ACOE was tasked with upgrading the large siphon systems that are used to draw down the river level during flood events. To prevent catastrophic flood damage, these siphons kick on if the river is going to crest over the top of the levees.

The first thing you see when you visit the site is a massive concrete bulkhead about 30 feet tall, 8 feet thick, and over 100 feet wide. Penetrating through the bulkhead are eight 84” ductile iron pipes through which the river water is ejected if the siphon kicks on. It is at these penetrations that the ACOE was looking for some ideas.

When the bulkhead was constructed, eight large square holes were formed across the face before pouring the concrete. It is through these large square holes that the 84” diameter pipes are placed. The ACOE was looking for solutions to fill the annular space between the round pipe and the square hole.

Powerful Polymers

After consulting with New Orleans-based contractor KMH Coatings and the ACOE, it was decided that a high-density polyurethane foam would be perfect for the application. NSF-approved AP Lift 430 was selected as the go-to product. Its combination of excellent strength, yield, and bond is ideal for these kinds of structural void fill applications, but most importantly it is watertight.

Painless Procedures

KMH mobilized their polyurethane spray rig and the AP Lift 430 was sprayed into the annular space around each of the 8 pipes. AP Lift 430 is most commonly known as a first-class concrete lifting polymer but a large percentage of applications are void fills. Once the void was filled, they attempted to cut off the overspray but it proved to be too dense to cut. Instead, a disc grinder was used to sand down the polymer foam flush with the face of the concrete bulkhead.

Rapid Result

The ACOE was extremely impressed by the toughness of the product and with the minimal time that it took to install it; two days from start to finish. 

Want more information on geotechnical polyurethane products?

In Cape Canaveral, Florida, a heavily loaded slap stand structure was planned for construction along a transfer aisle in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). This slap stand would be critical in servicing the proposed Space Launch System vehicle (SLS). However, the project faced a significant challenge when it was discovered that the near-surface subsoils consisted of loose fill materials susceptible to further densification and volume loss due to vibrations and water infiltration. With the slap stand tentatively designed to bear directly upon the ground-level floor slab of the VAB, the degree of subsoil support beneath the floor slab section became a critical concern.

Powerful Polymers

To address this issue, the geotechnical engineer of record recommended a ground improvement solution using permeation grout. Helicon, a leading soil stabilization contractor, worked alongside the geotechnical design team to develop a permeation grout program that would meet the building code load criteria. AP Soil 600, a high-strength, hydro-insensitive structural polyurethane foam, was selected as the ideal product for this project due to its exceptional ability to support heavy structures.

Painless Procedure

Helicon’s technicians installed permeation grout injection pipes on a center-to-center spacing of approximately 2 feet across each of the slap stand areas. The injection points were driven to a depth of at least 5 feet below the floor slab grade. Grout was injected at a relatively low pressure (less than 50 psi), and grout needles were slowly withdrawn during pumping to ensure a uniform distribution of grout to about 3 feet below the bottom of the slab level. The amount of grout used was carefully controlled, with less than 15 gallons per foot per injection point.

Rapid Result

The permeation grout project was a resounding success, effectively improving the load-bearing capacity of the existing soils at the site. The precise application of AP Soil 600 ensured that the slap stand structure would have a stable and reliable foundation, allowing for the safe and efficient servicing of the Space Launch System vehicle. Thanks to Helicon’s expertise and the power AP Soil 600, this piece of critical infrastructure in Cape Canaveral was reinforced and readied for countless future space exploration missions.

Want more information on stabilizing soil with polyurethane?

Essential Details

Dates/Pricing

Slab Lifting Masterclass: April 15th & 16th, 2024 – $685.00
Public Works Infrastructure Repair: April 18th & 19th, 2024 – $685.00

Location

Spray Foam Systems
1502 Airport Rd.
Greensboro, GA 30642
Click Here for Directions

Discount

Register for both classes and get a 25% discount

Slab Lifting Masterclass: April 15th & 16th, 2024 – $685.00

The concrete lifting master is an intensive opportunity to learn what it takes to start a concrete lifting business and then take it to the next level. The training you will receive will include Safety, Site Evaluation, Estimating, Product Selection, Sales, Equipment, Concrete Lifting Techniques, and Deep Lift / Deep Lock. You will also learn about taking your concrete lifting business to the next level. You will learn about other tools we have to help you land bigger jobs and how to engage the engineering community to gain access to unique markets. Join the industry’s top team of concrete lifting professionals for training, learning, and fun.

Public Works: April 18th & 19th, 2024 – $685.00

The public works course is two days dedicated to training and teaching Public Works professionals and specialty grouting contractors. You will learn how to utilize polyurethane technology to solve problems that municipalities and public works departments commonly face and how to do it at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. There will be a heavy emphasis on sealing underground infrastructure and stabilizing and lifting roads. We will cover the full spectrum of our product line including Leak Seal, Permeation, Soil Stabilization, and Slab Lifting. Join the industry’s top team of infrastructure specialists for training, learning, and fun.

Make Higher Margins with Slab Lifting

Booth: 324

Dates: March 5th & 6th , 2024

Hours: March 5th 2pm – 6 pm, March 6th 2pm – 5pm

Location: Westgate Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada

Website: Sprayfoam.org/Sprayfoam24

Come by our booth at the show to speak with our slab lift experts and learn just how easy and affordable it is to maximize your profits. We'll explain how you can equip your current spray foam rigs to lift slabs. With just a minor investment in some additional slab lifting equipment and materials, you can equip your current spray foam rigs for these lucrative new jobs. Slab lifting takes less time, uses less material, and brings in more revenue per job than standard spray foam work.

Speaking Engagement

Speaker: Erik Prinzing

Subject: Spray Foam Rig to Lifting Rig Conversion

Date & Time: March 5th, 11:00am

Location: Pavilion 3

In this seminar, you will learn how to make higher margins by equipping your existing spray foam rigs for more lucrative slab lifting jobs that take less time, require less material, and net more money per job than standard spray foam applications.

Erik Prinzing is a driven professional with over 20 years of experience in the construction sector. Over the years Erik has become well-rounded in construction practices, with experiences ranging from working in the field as a contractor to assisting customers as a regional manager in the concrete leveling industry.

Want more info on adding slab lift capabilities to your spray foam rig?