Alchatek Blog

Does leaking or sunken concrete plague your basement floor? These issues can be more than just a nuisance; they can lead to serious structural problems if left untreated. In this article, we'll explore two effective methods for basement floor repair: curtain grouting for leaks and slab lifting for sunken concrete. With an understanding of these techniques, you'll be equipped to find the right repair professionals to restore a safe, dry, and level basement floor.

Sealing Slab Leaks with Curtain Grouting

As a homeowner, discovering a leak in your basement's concrete slab can be stressful and frustrating. However, contractors trained in curtain grouting offer a highly effective solution. This process involves injecting a water-reactive polyurethane foam underneath the concrete slab in a grid pattern. The material reacts with water, forming a solid seal that prevents further water infiltration.

The curtain grouting process begins by drilling small holes through the concrete slab in a diamond grid pattern. Next, technicians inject the polyurethane through each hole, with new injections overlapping the previous ones, a technique called stage grouting. As the foam reacts with the water from the leak, it expands and forms a watertight seal.

Benefits of curtain grouting with polyurethane:

• It addresses multiple leaks simultaneously, providing a comprehensive repair.
• The water-reactive resin forms a durable, flexible seal that lasts.
• It is minimally invasive, requiring less equipment and causing minimal disruption.
• The products used are NSF-certified for contact with drinking water, ensuring a safe and eco-friendly solution.

Leveling Uneven Basement Floors with Slab Lifting

In addition to sealing leaks, basement floor repair often involves leveling uneven or sunken concrete slabs. Uneven floors can be a tripping hazard and may indicate underlying structural issues. To level a basement floor, professionals commonly use a process called slab lifting.

Slab lifting involves pumping a polyurethane foam beneath the sunken portion of the slab. The foam expands, filling the void and lifting the slab back to its original position. This process is relatively quick and cost-effective compared to replacing the entire slab.

The polyurethane slab lifting process typically includes the following steps:

1. Technicians drill small holes through the concrete slab to access the void beneath.
2. They pump the polyurethane foam through the holes, filling the void and lifting the slab.
3. They patch the holes and smooth the surface, restoring the basement floor to a level and even condition.

Benefits of slab lifting with polyurethane:

• It is lightweight, reducing the risk of further soil compression.
• The foam expands quickly, allowing for fast lifting and leveling of the slab.
• Polyurethane foam is water-resistant, helping to prevent future moisture-related issues.
• The process is less invasive and more cost-effective than replacing the entire slab.

When to Contact a Professional for Basement Floor Repair

If you notice leaking or uneven concrete floors in your basement, address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your home's structural integrity. Qualified professionals can restore your basement floor to a safe, stable, and dry condition, protecting your home for years to come.

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

Want more info on curtain grouting and concrete leveling?

Many homeowners notice over time that their concrete patios may begin to sink or become uneven. Not only does this create an unsightly appearance, but it also poses tripping hazards and potential for accidents. Concrete patio leveling using polyurethane foam offers a precise, durable, and cost-effective solution compared to traditional methods like complete replacement.

The Benefits of Polyurethane Foam for Patio Leveling

Polyurethane foam lifting, also known as slab jacking, excels in raising sunken concrete slabs. Technicians drill small holes into the concrete and inject the foam beneath. The expanding foam fills the voids underneath the patio, lifting it to the desired level with pinpoint accuracy. This method is not only faster than replacing the entire slab but also provides a long-term solution that is less invasive and environmentally friendly.

Precision and Durability

Polyurethane foam allows for precise adjustments to within 1/8 inch of the desired height. This control ensures a smooth patio surface that seamlessly matches the surrounding areas. Furthermore, the durability of polyurethane resists further sinking, sagging, or washing away, outlasting traditional methods like mudjacking.

Speed and Convenience

Using polyurethane foam significantly speeds up the repair process. The foam reaches 90% of its full strength within just 15 minutes, allowing you to use the patio the same day you complete the repair. This quick cure time minimizes disruption and offers a convenient option for busy homeowners.

Environmental Impact

Opting for polyurethane foam also benefits the environment. This method reduces the carbon footprint compared to pouring new concrete, which involves more substantial material and energy use. Be sure the contractor you hire uses repair material that has been NSF-certified for contact with potable water.

Finding a Concrete Patio Leveling Contractor

Choosing the right contractor is crucial to the success of leveling your concrete patio. You must select professionals experienced in polyurethane foam lifting. These specialists use industry-leading products and techniques to ensure proper leveling and long-term stability of your patio.

If uneven concrete plagues your patio, don't wait for the problem to worsen. Contact a qualified contractor who specializes in polyurethane foam lifting to efficiently and effectively restore your patio to its original condition. This solution not only enhances the appearance of your patio but also eliminates safety risks, providing peace of mind.

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

Want more information on polyurethane concrete leveling?

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

1. Site evaluation: First, experts conduct a thorough assessment of the pool deck to identify settled areas and determine the best injection points.
2. Preparation: Next, if necessary, they make saw cuts in the deck to release any bound slabs.
3. Injection: Then, technicians drill small holes into the deck and inject polyurethane foam in controlled bursts.
4. Monitoring: Afterward, they monitor the deck for lift using precise measuring tools like dial indicators, zip levels, or laser transits.
5. 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!

Want more information on concrete leveling with polyurethane?

Uneven concrete slabs are a common problem for homeowners. Level concrete slabs are ideal. Not only do sunken slabs look unsightly, but they can also pose safety hazards. However, there's no need to worry. In this post, we'll explore why slabs sink and how polyurethane foam can effectively level them.

Why Do Concrete Slabs Sink?

Concrete slabs can sink for various reasons. Firstly, erosion from poor drainage or leaking pipes can cause issues. Secondly, poorly compacted soil during construction may lead to settling. Lastly, the decay of organic materials under the slab can create voids.

Over time, these issues create gaps or destabilize the soil beneath the concrete. Consequently, slabs settle unevenly.

Level Concrete Slabs with Polyurethane

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

Polyurethane foam has several advantages over other methods like mudjacking. Firstly, it's a minimally invasive process. Secondly, it has a quick curing time, allowing the slab to be usable within 15 minutes. Additionally, it's a lightweight yet durable material. Moreover, it's eco-friendly. Lastly, it's more affordable than total slab replacement in most cases.

A Jack Attack System is sometimes necessary in addition to polyurethane foam. This triangular steel frame helps the technician adjust the slab's position. Often, a measuring device called a dial indicator is used to track the exact level of the slab.

Common Areas for Concrete Slab Leveling

Sunken slabs can affect various areas of your property:

• Garage Floor Slabs: Uneven garage floors can make parking and walking difficult. 
• Basement Floor Slabs: Settling basement floors can lead to water pooling and moisture issues. 
• Patio Slabs: Sunken patio slabs can ruin the aesthetic and functionality of your outdoor living space. 
• Walkway Slabs: Uneven walkway slabs pose tripping hazards for you and your guests. 
• Driveway Slabs: Sunken driveway slabs can damage vehicles and make snow removal challenging. 
• Pool Deck Slabs: Settling pool deck slabs can be dangerous and unattractive.
• Porch Slabs: Uneven porch slabs can detract from your home's curb appeal. 

In most cases, polyurethane foam injection works well for residential concrete lifting needs. 

Level Concrete Slabs: Next Steps for Homeowners

If you're dealing with sunken concrete slabs, don't let them diminish your home's safety, value, and appearance any longer. Instead, consult a professional contractor experienced in polyurethane foam lifting to assess your specific situation and determine the best solution for your property. With the right approach, you can enjoy safe, attractive, and level concrete surfaces once again.

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

Want more information on how to level concrete slabs?

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

• 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!

Want more information on lifting concrete slabs with polyurethane?

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!

Want more information on leveling concrete with foam?

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.

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

Want more information on foam concrete lifting?

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!

Want more information on lifting slabs with polyurethane?

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!