Alchatek Blog

When it comes to fixing sunken or uneven concrete slabs, homeowners have two main options: slab jacking with polyurethane and mudjacking (lifting with cement slurry). Both methods aim to level the slab without demolishing or replacing it. However, they differ in their approach and effectiveness.

What is Mudjacking?

Mudjacking involves pumping a mixture of cement, water, and other materials (known as "mud") under a sunken slab to raise it. This process has been around for over 60 years. While it can lift settled concrete, it has some drawbacks.

The weight of the mud material can be as much as 100 lbs per cubic foot, which can cause further settlement. Moreover, mudjacking requires drilling 2-3" holes in the concrete to pump the thick material through. These holes need to be patched and can be noticeable. Additionally, the mud pumped under the slab takes a lot of time to cure, sometimes up to a couple of days.

Benefits of Polyurethane Slab Jacking

In contrast, polyurethane slab jacking offers several advantages:

• Lighter Weight: Polyurethane weighs only 2-4 lbs per cubic foot. This lightweight material helps stabilize the soil without adding extra weight that could cause further sinking. Furthermore, polyurethane expands to fill voids and crevices, providing excellent support.
• Smaller Holes: Polyurethane injection requires only 3/8" holes, which are much less noticeable when patched. This results in a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing repair. 
• Faster Curing Time: Polyurethane cures quickly, reaching up to 90% full strength in just 15 minutes. This means the slab can be used almost immediately after repair. 
• Less Disruption with Minimal Equipment: Polyurethane slab jacking requires less heavy equipment compared to mudjacking, resulting in minimal disruption to the surrounding property. The process is less intrusive and can be completed more efficiently, causing less inconvenience to the homeowner.
• Permanent Bonding: Polyurethane forms a strong, permanent bond with the underside of the concrete slab. This creates a secure, long-lasting solution that effectively supports the slab and prevents future settling or sinking.
• Water Resistance and Erosion Prevention: Polyurethane is water-resistant, which helps prevent further erosion of the soil beneath the slab. By sealing out moisture, polyurethane minimizes the risk of future settling caused by water-related issues, ensuring a more stable and durable repair.

Considering these advantages, polyurethane slab jacking is optimal for most concrete leveling situations. Its durability, effectiveness, and ease of application make it the go-to solution. When considering slab jacking, homeowners should seek a qualified, experienced contractor to ensure the best results.

Lifting Concrete with Precision

When faced with sunken or uneven concrete slabs, slab jacking with polyurethane offers a more effective and long-lasting solution compared to mudjacking. Its lightweight properties, smaller application holes, and faster curing time make it an efficient choice for homeowners. By opting for polyurethane slab jacking and working with a reputable contractor, homeowners can successfully restore their concrete surfaces to a level and stable condition while avoiding the potential drawbacks of mudjacking.

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

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Sunken concrete slabs plague many property owners. Over time, erosion, shifting soil, compaction, and other factors lead to concrete settlement. As a result, neglecting this issue can cause structural damage, vehicle damage, trip hazards, and other liability risks. However, contractors skilled in leveling concrete with foam offer an efficient and effective solution.

Sunken Concrete Repair Options

Property owners can choose from three main options to repair sunken concrete:

• Replace the Slab: This messy, time-consuming, and expensive option involves removing and re-pouring the concrete.
• Mudjacking: Also called slab jacking with cement grout, this method requires heavy equipment and large drill holes. Furthermore, the cement may crack and sink again over time.
• Leveling with Polyurethane Foam: Contractors inject lightweight foam through small holes drilled in the slab. Subsequently, the expanding foam quickly raises the concrete with minimal invasiveness and long-lasting durability.

Why Polyurethane Foam is Ideal for Concrete Leveling

Several key benefits make polyurethane foam ideal for leveling sunken slabs:

• High Strength: Slab lifting foams deliver compressive strengths stronger than clay or bedrock. Moreover, the foam gains even more strength when injected under the slab.
• Fast and Efficient: Polyurethane foam slab jacking proves much faster than replacing concrete. 
• Minimally Invasive: The polyurethane lifting process requires smaller holes and lighter equipment than mudjacking or replacement.
• Lasting Results: High-strength polyurethane foams provide long-term durability and load-bearing capacity. 
• Environmentally Friendly: Alchatek's lifting foams are NSF-certified to strict environmental standards.

The Polyurethane Concrete Leveling Process

Contractors follow a simple 3-step process to level concrete with polyurethane foam:

1. First, they strategically drill 3/8" holes into the slab and install injection ports.
2. Next, they inject high-strength polyurethane foam through the ports.
3. Finally, the expanding foam beneath the slab fills voids and lifts the concrete back to a level position.

After lifting, contractors patch the drill holes and seal any cracks. Subsequently, the repaired concrete is ready for use about 45 minutes later. Depending on the size of the repair area, the entire process often takes just a few hours.

Get Started Leveling Concrete with Foam

If sunken concrete slabs plague your property, Alchatek is ready to help. As a leading manufacturer of polyurethane foam injection materials, our expert team offers project guidance and connects you with qualified local contractors.

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

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If you've noticed that your driveways, patios, or sidewalks have sunken slabs, it's time to consider a reliable solution: foam concrete lifting. This innovative technique involves pumping a lightweight, yet strong, material beneath the slab to level it out. This article explores the benefits of foam concrete lifting and why it's a great option for homeowners.

The Strength of Polyurethane Foam

When it comes to lifting concrete slabs, contractors need a material that is strong enough for the job. Cured polyurethane lifting foam is stronger than crystalline bedrock. Lifting foams have density and compressive strength ratings, ensuring they can support the weight of your home's concrete slabs. Polyurethane outperforms traditional materials like clay and bedrock when it comes to load-bearing capacity. For example, Alchatek's AP Lift 430 and AP Lift 475 have compressive strengths of 50 psi and 100 psi, respectively, in a free-rise state. That's equivalent to 7,200 to 14,000 lbs per square foot of support. When injected into a confined space beneath your concrete slab, these foams increase their compressive strength even further.

Versatility in Concrete Leveling Applications

Contractors use polyurethane concrete lifting foams in various applications, from residential driveways to airport slabs supporting jumbo jets. These foams cure quickly, reaching 90% of their full strength within just 15 minutes. They also conform to the shape of the void more accurately than cement grout and don't shrink or sink over time. Alchatek's AP Lift foams come in a range of options, each with unique expansion and strength properties. For example, AP Fill 420 has the highest expansion, making it ideal for filling large voids, while AP Lift 475 has a lower expansion rate but significantly higher compressive strength. Your contractor will assess your specific needs and choose the most appropriate foam for your project.

Find a Foam Concrete Lifting Contractor

Foam concrete lifting is a reliable and effective solution for leveling uneven concrete slabs around your home. By hiring a professional contractor who uses high-quality polyurethane foams, you can ensure that they lift and support your slabs properly, providing a safe and stable surface for years to come. Don't let sunken or uneven concrete detract from your home's functionality and safety.

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As a homeowner, you've probably seen sunken or uneven concrete slabs around your property. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also be dangerous trip hazards. Moreover, this problem can affect many areas, including:

• Garage floor slabs
• Basement floor slabs
• Patio slabs
• Walkway slabs
• Driveway slabs
• Pool deck slabs
• Porch slabs

Fortunately, you can solve this issue without the hassle and high cost of completely removing and replacing the slab. Raising concrete slabs with polyurethane is effective and cost-efficient.

Why Concrete Slabs Sink

Before explaining the solution, let's look at why slabs sink in the first place. Generally, a few common reasons include:

• Erosion from poor drainage or leaking pipes
• Poorly compacted soil during construction
• Decay of organic materials under the slab

Over time, these issues can create voids or destabilize the soil beneath your concrete, resulting in uneven settling.

The Benefits of Raising Concrete Slabs with Polyurethane

Polyurethane concrete leveling, also known as slab lifting or slab jacking, offers a highly effective way to raise and stabilize sunken concrete slabs. Specifically, the process involves drilling small holes into the slab and injecting expansive polyurethane foam underneath. As the foam expands, it fills voids, compacts the soil, and lifts the slab back into place.

Polyurethane foam to lift concrete has several advantages compared to mudjacking with cement grout or total slab replacement. Firstly, the process is minimally invasive, requiring smaller drill holes and less equipment. Secondly, the foam cures quickly, often allowing the slab to be used within 15 minutes after leveling. Additionally, its lightweight yet durable nature means it won't sink or wash away. Moreover, it's eco-friendly and NSF-certified to meet strict environmental standards. Lastly, it's more affordable than completely replacing the slab.

Is Polyurethane Concrete Leveling Right for Your Home?

In general, polyurethane slab lifting works well for most residential needs. However, total slab replacement might be necessary in some cases. For instance, if your slab is severely cracked or damaged across a large area, replacement may be a better long-term solution. Nevertheless, for most homeowners dealing with sunken garage floors, basement floors, patios, walkways, driveways, pool decks, or porch slabs, polyurethane lifting provides a quick, effective, and budget-friendly solution.

Next Steps for Homeowners

Uneven concrete slabs can compromise your home's safety and appearance. If you're thinking about fixing your settling slab issues, talk to a professional contractor who has experience with polyurethane foam lifting. They can assess your specific situation and help you determine the best solution for your property. Don't let sunken slabs diminish your home's value and aesthetics any longer. Take action today and enjoy the benefits of a level, safe, and attractive concrete surface.

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

Want more information on raising concrete slabs with polyurethane?

Do you have sinking or uneven concrete slabs around your home? Not only can they be an eyesore, but uneven walkways, driveways, and patios can also create tripping hazards and lead to costly accidents. Many homeowners assume their only option is to rip out the old concrete and pour new slabs. However, professional slab lifting offers a much better solution. Lifting concrete is a precise, permanent fix without the chaos and cost of ripping out and replacing old slabs. Keep reading to discover why slab lifting with polyurethane foam is the smart choice.

Concrete Leveling with Pinpoint Accuracy

The latest slab lifting techniques utilize expanding polyurethane foam to raise concrete slabs. Technicians drill small holes in the slab and inject the foam underneath. As the foam expands, it fills all the gaps and voids under the slab, providing stability and support as it gently lifts the slab back into place. Experienced technicians can control the process to within 1/8 inch of the desired height, ensuring you get a slab that is level, smooth, and seamlessly matches the surrounding concrete. In contrast, old-fashioned mudjacking is far less precise.

A Permanent Fix That Lasts for Decades

In addition to being more accurate, slab lifting with polyurethane is also more durable. The special polymers used are lightweight yet incredibly strong. They lock into place, providing permanent stability that won't sink, sag, or wash out over time. In fact, polyurethane is stronger than the bedrock underneath your home! On the other hand, the heavy cement-based slurry used in mudjacking is prone to erosion, shrinkage, and cracking which can cause your slab to become uneven again. Rather than settling for a temporary fix, choose a permanent solution.

Fast, Clean, and Environmentally-Friendly

Moreover, slab lifting with polyurethane foam is less disruptive than pouring new concrete. You won't have to wait for days as the concrete hardens since the foam cures to 90% strength in just 15 minutes. This means your slab can be back in service the same day. The holes needed for injecting foam are also much smaller than those for pumping heavy cement, resulting in a cleaner and less intrusive process. Furthermore, you can feel good knowing that Alchatek's polyurethane foams are NSF-certified to meet strict environmental standards.

Find a Qualified Slab Lifting Contractor

Ultimately, the key to a successful concrete lifting project is hiring experienced professionals. At Alchatek, we work with experienced slab lifting contractors across the world. Our partners use industry-leading products and techniques to deliver outstanding results for homeowners like you.

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

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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!

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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!

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