A pool deck provides the perfect place to relax and enjoy the summer sun. However, an uneven deck can be unsightly and dangerous. This article explains the causes of settling and an advanced pool deck leveling technique using durable, eco-friendly polyurethane.
Causes of Pool Deck Settling
Soil Erosion
Poor drainage, improperly placed downspouts, leaking drain pipes, and broken water lines can all contribute to soil erosion beneath pool decks. As a result, the soil washes away, forming voids and causing the deck to settle and become uneven.
Poor Soil Compaction
During pool construction, contractors should properly compact the backfill soil. However, if they do not execute this step correctly, the soil may settle over time, leading to an uneven deck surface.
Biological Decay
Construction debris, buried trees, and other biodegradable materials can decompose underneath pool decks. Consequently, as these materials break down, voids form, causing the deck to sink.
A Durable Pool Deck Leveling Solution
Polyurethane Foam Injection
Polyurethane foam injection, also known as slab jacking, offers an effective method for leveling pool decks. The process involves injecting expanding foam beneath the settled areas of the deck. As the foam expands, it fills voids, compacts loose soil, and lifts the deck back to its original level position.
Benefits of Polyurethane Foam
- Lightweight: Polyurethane foam is much lighter than alternatives like cement grout, putting less stress on the underlying soil.
- Fast-curing: Polyurethane foam cures in just 15 minutes, allowing you to use the pool deck the same day.
- High strength: Polyurethane foam can support up to 14,000 pounds per square foot, ensuring long-lasting results.
- Environmentally friendly: Furthermore, many polyurethane foams, like Alchatek's AP Lift 430 and AP Lift 475, are NSF-certified to comply with strict environmental standards.
The Pool Deck Leveling Process
- Site evaluation: First, experts conduct a thorough assessment of the pool deck to identify settled areas and determine the best injection points.
- Preparation: Next, if necessary, they make saw cuts in the deck to release any bound slabs.
- Injection: Then, technicians drill small holes into the deck and inject polyurethane foam in controlled bursts.
- Monitoring: Afterward, they monitor the deck for lift using precise measuring tools like dial indicators, zip levels, or laser transits.
- Finishing: Finally, experts drill and inject additional holes as needed to achieve a level surface.
Pool Deck Leveling Contractors
Uneven pool decks can be a safety hazard and detract from the beauty of your backyard oasis. By understanding the causes of pool deck settling and hiring a contractor skilled in advanced solutions like polyurethane foam injection, you can restore your deck to its original level condition.
Fill out this form or call 404-618-0438 for a contractor referral today!
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