Alchatek Blog

Today, we delve into the technicalities of hydraulic cement and crystalline cement versus polyurethane grout for leak seal injection. This article aims to provide you with detailed, actionable information to guide your decision-making process.

Understanding Your Options

Hydraulic cement, crystalline cement, and polyurethane grout are not competing product categories. Instead, they each offer unique benefits and applications. Hydraulic cement and crystalline cement are cost-effective and easy to apply, making them a go-to solution for many common situations. They share similar properties with basic cement repair, providing a reliable solution for static structures.

However, let’s be clear. If your crack or joint is subject to any significant movement, hydraulic and crystalline cement may fail over time, just like common cement. Yes, crystalline cement does expand over time and fill cracks, but it’s not designed to handle excessive movement. (This fact is actually listed on crystalline cement manufacturer technical data sheets.)

When to Use Polyurethane Grout

Polyurethane grout is the appropriate choice when a structure is subject to movement over time. It’s a more complex and costly solution (in the short term) than simply using hydraulic cement, but worth the investment in the long term.

Consider a three-foot thick potable water tank filled with rebar. You might have a hairline crack - a minor weeper - held together by the rebar. You could easily seal this with hydraulic or crystalline cement, and the leak would stop for the short term. But remember, you still have three feet of water in your concrete, and your rebar is potentially exposed to that.

In such a case, full-depth injection using a polyurethane grout would be highly beneficial. This product has characteristics that hydraulic cement doesn’t have, making it a more reliable solution for dynamic structures.

The Issue of Movement

Movement is the biggest challenge when using hydraulic cement. In manholes, for instance, you’ll often see pipe invert laterals coated with hydraulic cement to stop leaks. But the leaks return year after year, requiring more and more cement.

Why not choose a more lasting solution? Use a urethane once, spend a little more, and have a flexible product in place. You won’t ever have to do it again. It’s simple, and it’s long-lasting.

Final Thoughts

Let’s address a common scenario. Parking garages often operate on tight budgets. When faced with the cost of injecting all the cracks, the owner may not have the entire budget at the moment - but still need to stop the leaks. In such cases, we recommend starting with hydraulic cement or crystalline cement to stop the leak on a short-term basis - but also start saving/budgeting for a permanent polyurethane crack injection solution.

Remember, leaks may return due to structural movement caused by thermal cycles or expansive soil swelling. When they do, you’ll need to address them. By providing a quick solution now and helping plan for the future, we build trust with our clients. Many buildings and parking garages set up remedial grouting programs to address long-term problems periodically.

Contact us for more information on the best grouting solutions for your specific needs. We are committed to providing you with reliable, professional, and detailed information to guide your decisions. Remember, the choice of materials is paramount, and we are here to help you make the best choice.

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In the realm of grouting, patience and a methodical approach are key to achieving optimal results. This is particularly true when it comes to the concept of stage grouting, a technique that ensures effective curtain grouting with polyurethane.

The Concept of Stage Grouting

Stage grouting is not about pumping a predetermined amount of grout into a hole. Such an approach would result in the grout pushing away from the wall, which is not the desired outcome. The goal is to keep the grout close to the wall, as the purpose of this process is waterproofing, not soil modification or permeation grouting.

The Methodology of Stage Grouting

The stage grouting process begins with a cup test to determine when the grout starts to react and turn into foam. Typically 45 seconds to a minute is a good time but adjust as necessary for field conditions. At this point, it is recommended to pump a small amount of grout, perhaps a third or even a quarter of the planned total, into the hole. After that initial amount begins to react, another burst of grout is pumped in, and the process is repeated. The aim here is to slowly build a foam mass on the backside of the wall. This foam mass, once formed, will hold the new grout against the wall, allowing it to travel vertically or horizontally. This is the desired outcome, as it facilitates communication between the ports or holes drilled into the wall.

The Importance of Stage Grouting

Stage grouting is a crucial technique in curtain grouting. Many issues arise when too much material is used without significant impact. Stage grouting allows for careful monitoring and slow, methodical application, ensuring that the grout is effectively used and serves its purpose. If, after several stages of grouting, no progress is observed, it may be necessary to move to another area. This could indicate an anomaly or unidentified voids. The key takeaway here is that the right answer is never to pump more grout when in doubt. The process should be slow, methodical, and thoughtful to ensure impact.

With technical expertise and reliability, the methodical approach of stage grouting emphasizes the importance of patience and careful monitoring in achieving optimal results. Remember, when it comes to grouting, the goal is not to use more material, but to use the material more effectively. Go slow, be methodical, think about it, and make sure you're having an impact.

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Restoration waterproofing is always a unique undertaking as there are many unknowns. Identifying the source of the infiltration is the obvious first step and it is a challenging one. Properly diagnosing a leak may require numerous steps that include, but are not limited to, inspection, flood testing, dye testing, mock-ups, removal of finishes, and occasionally destructive test methods.

Setting Clear Goals

Before embarking on a restoration waterproofing project, it is important to set clear goals and expectations for all parties involved. Clearly, stopping water intrusion is normally the main goal. Various methodologies and products can be employed to achieve this goal. Each of those may have different costs, varying levels of site disruption, and varying timetables. These should all be discussed so the end customer can make a well-educated decision.

Understanding Water Migration

It is important to understand a few key concepts about water migration. Just because a leak only manifests in specific areas does not mean that there are no other locations allowing water ingress. Water seeks the path of least resistance, typically the low spots. As these low spots are remediated, the water may migrate to other failed areas. This can be further complicated if the repairs are conducted during a relatively dry time, as the leak migration may not manifest until the next rain event. Conducting waterproofing repairs during active leaking helps to identify leak migration issues. Flood testing before, during, and/or after the work also can help identify leak migration.

In summation, remedial waterproofing is often an explorative process and can require on-the-fly adjustments. Setting expectations, maintaining open communication with all involved parties, and attention to detail are essential to making the waterproofing process efficient and successful.

Want more info on Alchatek leak seal products and equipment?

Are you in search of a reliable material supplier for polyurethane leak seal and geotech applications? Look no further. Alchatek, an industry leader in the manufacture and supply of chemical grouts and construction products, is the partner you need. Alchatek is a name synonymous with trust and reliability.

Advanced Construction Technologies

Alchatek specializes in advanced construction technologies for sealing leaks, stabilizing soils, lifting concrete, and repairing seawalls. Alchatek is organized into three divisions:

• The Leak Seal Division features polyurethane crack injection and curtain grouting solutions.
• The Geotechnical Division features concrete leveling, soil stabilization, and Deep Lock® deep stabilization solutions. 
• Seawall Repair Network® is the only national, all-inclusive seawall repair and preservation network.

A Supplier You Can Trust

Alchatek offers the most experienced technical support team in the industry, backed by extensive product expertise and decades of on-the-job training. This dedication ensures that you can build your business and complete your most important jobs with confidence. In addition, our commitment to manufacturing the highest quality products in the USA ensures that you receive the most reliable materials on the market.

So, are you ready to start your business or take your projects to the next level with a supplier you can trust? Call 404-618-0438 today to get started.

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As a geotechnical engineer, you understand the importance of stable supporting soil around structures. When the supporting soil becomes unstable, the stability of the structure is at risk. Common causes of unstable soil include erosion, poor compaction, freeze/thaw cycles, and decomposition of organic materials within the soil. Fortunately, soil can be stabilized with high-strength polyurethane. Whether you need a product recommendation for soil stabilization specs, or you're seeking accredited continuing education on this subject, Alchatek has you covered.

Product Recommendations for Soil Stabilization Specs

Experienced members of the Alchatek technical support team consult with engineers on a regular basis. When you call for assistance, you'll be connected to someone with extensive product knowledge and years of on-the-job experience out in the field. If you need a product recommendation for polyurethane soil stabilization specifications, call 404-618-0438 and ask for a geotechnical expert. 

Accredited Presentations

Alchatek offers one-hour CE/PDH accredited presentations on a variety of subjects, including geotechnical applications for polyurethane. These presentations are available online via videoconferencing or in person in a lunch-and-learn context. Geotechnical presentations are always given by an experienced expert who can field pretty much any question your team may have on the subject.

Click the button below and fill out the form to request an accredited presentation.

In the world of polyurethane geotech and leak seal repair applications, the quality of the products used is undeniably crucial. However, at Alchatek, we firmly believe that the success of your projects is not solely reliant on the products alone. It is the combination of superior products and comprehensive training and support that truly drives success.

Phone Support: Expert Assistance at Your Fingertips

Have you ever found yourself preparing for a project (or even in the middle of one), and needing immediate technical assistance? Our technical support is designed to address such situations. With Alchatek, you have access to a team of experts, ready to provide immediate, reliable phone support to navigate any challenges that may arise during your concrete repair projects.

On-Site Support: Expertise Right Where You Need It

In certain situations, phone support may not suffice. You may require hands-on assistance, on-site, to guide you through the process. That's where our nationwide field support comes into play. With Alchatek you could be eligible for assistance from a team of experienced professionals providing on-site support, ensuring your project's success.

Online Training: A Wealth of Knowledge at Your Disposal

In today's digital age, the importance of accessible, flexible learning cannot be overstated. Alchatek's online training is a testament to our commitment to this principle. Our online training center is a comprehensive resource, available 24/7 to qualified customers. This resource, rich with presentations, demos, and instructional videos, is available at your convenience, allowing you to enhance your knowledge at your own pace.

Training Events: In-Person Technical Education

Alchatek’s Spring and Fall training events provide in-depth education on slab lifting, soil stabilization, crack injection, and curtain grouting. These 2-to-3-day programs are designed to help experienced contractors round out their knowledge and get new contractors up and running quickly. In addition, half-day Alchatek grout labs at your local leak seal distributor offer a chance for a good overview of crack injection and curtain grouting products and procedures. These events provide a platform for hands-on training from our technical staff, offering a unique opportunity to gain practical experience and insights. Join an immersive learning experience that equips you with practical skills! Join our mailing list if you’d like to be notified when the next event is announced.

Expert Consultants – The Most Experienced Technical Services Team in the Industry

Charlie "The Grout Geek" Lerman, Director of Technical Services – Leak Seal Division, has been providing technical support and training for polyurethane grouts for over fifteen years and has been involved with the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) for a decade. He is also a veteran of the United States Navy’s submarine and recruiting services. Charlie is known in the industry by his nickname “The Grout Geek.”

Colt Hullander, Director of Technical Services – Geotech Division, has spent a decade on the contractor side of the industry as a project manager and installer. Colt brings many years of invaluable field experience with expertise in a wide range of equipment, products, and techniques. His field experience and technical acumen offer geotech customers an industry-leading support and consulting resource.

Jacob Bryant, Geotech Services Technician, has worked in various forms of construction for the last 8 years. He spent several years working as a technician applying chemical grouts, servicing and maintaining equipment, training new hires, and managing rigs/warehouse stock. He has worked across the United States with a wide variety of polymers and soil types.

At Alchatek, we're committed to providing comprehensive training and support to ensure your success in the field of concrete repair. Whether you need phone support, on-site assistance, online training, or expert consultations, we're here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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Kyle Wrobleski brings a wealth of industry experience and expertise to benefit Alchatek customers in the Northeastern United States. With a background in business development and sales, combined with hands-on knowledge of concrete and construction, Kyle is uniquely qualified to assist contractors and engineers with a wide variety of projects.

Prior to joining Alchatek, Kyle served as a sales representative for Keystone Cement, where he excelled in providing exceptional customer service and building strong relationships. Kyle’s expertise includes working closely with engineers and architects, thanks to his tenure as a Territory Sales Manager at Handi-Lift. Additionally, as the owner of Andover Concrete and Masonry, Kyle gained valuable insights into the intricacies of running a contracting business, specifically in residential concrete and masonry. Outside of work, Kyle enjoys spending time with his family on his farm in Blairstown, NJ.

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Looking for polyurethane concrete repair product Tech Data Sheets, Safety Data Sheets, Case Studies, or Application Procedures?  All of these documents are available on one convenient page at Alchatek's Comprehensive Download Resource Center.

Simply click the red down-arrow button at the top right of the website or select the Resources/Downloads menu option to access this page at any time.

Technical Data Sheets for Polyurethane Concrete Repair Products

Technical Data Sheets are available for the following product categories:

• Leak Seal
• Soil Stabilization
• Slab Lifting
• Water Stop
• Structural Repair
• Equipment and Accessories

Safety Data Sheets for Polyurethane Concrete Repair Products

Safety Data Sheets are available for the following product categories:

• Sealing Leaks
• Stabilizing Soil
• Lifting Slabs
• Structural Repair
• Accessories

Case Studies for Polyurethane Concrete Repair Projects

The following Case Studies are available:

Leak Seal Case Studies

• Sealing Pipe Joints for a Culvert Restoration Project
• Sealing Residential Basement Leaks in Alaska
• Curtain Grouting in a Repurposed Power Plant Intake Well
• Curtain Grouting a Complex Crack in a Basement Floor
• Specialty Waterproofing at Hydroelectric Dam
• Repairing a Leaky Pipe & Sinkhole on a Residential Property
• Leak Seal in Water Treatment Plant Pump Station
• Contractor Seals Leaks in Quenching Tanks for Aluminum Manufacturer
• Saving a Luxury Penthouse Suite from Costly Water Damage
• Protecting Drinking Water from Potential Flood Contamination
• Leaks in Wastewater Treatment Plant Sealed to Prevent Environmental Contamination
• Sealing Leaks in a Church Wall to Stop Costly Flooding of Elevator Pit
• Leak Seal at Water Treatment Plant
• Massive Underground Leak in Aquifer Shut Down
• Sealing Hairline Concrete Cracks with Acrylic Injection Resin

Geotech Case Studies

• Deep Lock Soil Stabilization for New Construction
• Undersealing a Leaking Man-Made Waterfall
• Pool House Foundation Void Fill
• Stabilizing a Failing Pond Spillway
• Strengthening Deep Soil Underneath a House
• Stabilizing Deep Soil to Prevent a Garage from Breaking Away
• Stabilizing Student Housing
• Repairing a Footing in a Detention Pond
• Repairing a Leak in a Retention Pond
• Deep Soil Stabilization at Residential Property
• Repairing a Leaky Pipe & Sinkhole on a Residential Property
• Deep Soil Stabilization at Shopping Center
• Void Fill to Save Retaining Wall at Luxury Residence
• Gravel Wall Stabilization
• Slab Lifting at a High School in Buffalo, New York
• Contractor Successfully Completes Unique & Challenging Driveway Lift
• Deep Soil Stabilization with Polyurethane
• Protecting a Building Foundation Next to an Excavation Site
• Stabilizing a Foundation to Save a Valuable Two Story House
• Leveling Sunken Slabs in a Pole Barn
• Slab Lift for Chinese Railway
• Slab Lift at Seed Sorting Plant
• Soil Stabilization at Busy Intersection

Procedures for Polyurethane Concrete Repair Applications

Procedures are available for the following applications:

• Slab Lift Process
• Deep Lock Process
• Standard Application for Injecting Cracks and Joints
• Stabilizing Curled Slabs
• Targeting Pipe Leaks with Point Grouting
• Manhole Infiltration Control
• Railroad Ballast Rock Repair & Stabilization
• Concrete Pipe and Corrugated Metal Pipe Joint Repair

Want more information on polyurethane concrete repair products and equipment?

We recently announced our new name - Alchatek. To celebrate this milestone, we are running a promotional contest. Whether you are a customer or a friend, we invite you to participate!

Alchatek Contest Prizes

• One (1) grand prize of a $1000 VISA gift card
• Two (2) second prizes of $500 VISA gift cards
• Ten (10) third prizes of $100 VISA gift cards

How to Enter the Alchatek Promo Contest

1. Entering the contest is easy. All you have to do is visit our contest page or scroll to the bottom of this page, and fill out the entry form. Once you have entered, you will be eligible to win any of the three prizes. 
   
   
2. To increase your chances of winning, you can also earn additional entries by following us on social media. After filling out the form, you'll be presented with links to our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn pages. You will earn extra entries for each social media account you follow.
   
   
3. We want to make sure that as many people as possible get a chance to win. You can share the contest link via email or social media. Anyone who enters using your unique referral link will earn you additional entries into the contest. It's that simple.

We are excited to celebrate the launch of Alchatek with all of you. Thanks in advance for your participation in this contest!

Alchatek offers a series of short educational videos covering a variety of polyurethane concrete repair applications. Each video is described below, followed by a viewing link.

Slab Lifting with Polyurethane Foam

This live-action video depicts a typical residential driveway slab lifting job, including a simple overview of the causes of settled slabs, the alternatives to polyurethane slab lifting, and the polyurethane slab lifting process itself. The slab lifting sequence features added 3D animation to show the foam expansion process underground during the slab lifting process. Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Slab Lift Process Explained

This animated video explains the polyurethane slab lift process in detail, primarily in the context of commercial/industrial applications. Sunken concrete slabs can be lifted back into place with two-component polymer foam designed to work in wet or dry conditions. The expansion force of the concrete leveling foam coupled with the pressure of a specialized pump generate enough controlled force to lift virtually any structure back into position with 1/8” precision.  Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Soil Stabilization Process Explained

This animated video explains the most common infrastructure and concrete issues requiring polyurethane soil stabilization, as well as the application process itself. Unstable, eroded, or loose soil around infrastructure can result in settlement and damage to the structure. Voids can be filled, soil consolidated, and water migration halted by permeating the soil with one of the AP Soil series of polyurethane resins. Click here to watch the video.

The Deep Lock® Process Explained

This animated video explains deep soil stabilization in great detail. Alchatek offers a unique combination of high-quality structural polymers along with the equipment and training needed to address deep soil issues. Contractors trained in The Deep Lock® process can stabilize soil at all levels and accomplish this with minimal imposition to or downtime for the property owner. Click here to watch the video.

The Polyurethane Leak Seal Process Explained

This animated video explains the most common infrastructure and concrete issues requiring polyurethane leak seal solutions, as well as the various application processes. Leaking concrete can be detrimental to safety and property values. Leaks in concrete structures can be permanently repaired with water-activated polyurethane and a few assorted leak seal accessories. Click here to watch the video.

Alchatek - A Supplier You Can Trust

This video provides a quick overview of Alchatek, an international leader in the manufacture and supply of chemical grouts and construction products for Geotechnical, Leak Seal, and Seawall Repair applications. Providing solutions from its headquarters in Tucker, Georgia, and its manufacturing facility in Reno, Nevada, Alchatek specializes in advanced construction technologies for sealing leaks, stabilizing soils, lifting concrete, and protecting infrastructure and seawall structures. Click here to watch the video.

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