Alchatek Blog

At Krog Street Market in Atlanta, a shop about five feet below grade had water infiltration issues during heavy rains. The foundation wall was leaking, causing problems for the shop owner. To address this issue, leak seal experts Lift It Rite were called in to implement a solution. Their approach involved creating a curtain wall to waterproof the affected areas. This waterproofing method is particularly effective for structures below ground level, where traditional methods may not suffice.

Powerful Polymers

The technicians chose Spetec PUR HighFoamer for this project due to its extraordinary expansion rate. Moreover, Spetec PUR HighFoamer can quickly stop leaks across large areas. After injection, it follows the infiltration path and effectively seals leaks off. As a result, this material was ideal for addressing the shop's water infiltration problem. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for various waterproofing applications, especially in challenging underground environments.

Painless Procedures

The repair process began with driving injection rods down the outside of the wall. These rods were inserted to a depth of five feet, reaching the footing. The rods were spaced two feet apart along about 30 feet of wall to ensure thorough coverage. Next, the material was injected through each rod at one gallon per vertical foot. This method created a curtain wall, completely waterproofing the leaking areas. The precise spacing of the injection rods and the carefully calculated injection rate were crucial factors in achieving a uniform and effective waterproof barrier. 

Rapid Results

The entire repair process took only one day to complete. As a result of the curtain wall installation, the leaking was stopped immediately. Furthermore, this solution will prevent future leaking, ensuring the shop's safety from further water infiltration. In the end, mall management was satisfied with the quick and effective resolution of the problem. The shop can now operate without concerns about water damage during heavy rains. This successful intervention solved the immediate issue and provided long-term protection for the shop. 

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A cooling tower lift station under construction in Iuka, Mississippi, had a significant water leak problem. The facility was losing approximately 1,000 gallons of water daily. The source and destination of the leak were unknown. A solution was implemented using concrete sealing techniques. Leak seal experts at Mid-South Concrete Lifting were called in to perform the repairs.

Powerful Polymers

The technicians chose Spetec PUR F400 for the repair. This polyurethane-based material has a closed-cell structure that seals cracks and joints. It remains flexible after curing, which allows for structural shifts. The material is NSF-certified, meeting environmental standards for water-related applications.

Painless Procedures

Due to the leak's unknown location, a comprehensive approach was necessary. The team injected the solution into all of the control joints and treated any visible hairline cracks within the concrete. The entire process was completed in two days, minimizing operational disruption.

Rapid Results

The treatment showed noticeable effects in the control joints. After the procedure, the company refilled the pit. The results met their expectations. Construction at the facility resumed without further delays. The solution effectively addressed the water loss issue while maintaining the structural integrity of the cooling tower lift station.

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Manhole infiltration can pose serious risks to nearby structures. In a recent case, water infiltration pulled soil into a manhole, eroded the ground beneath a walkway in front of a residence, and threatened to compromise the home's foundation. Specialists from SiteMix Pressure Grouting, LLC were called in to perform repairs to address this urgent situation.

Powerful Polymers

Two key products were selected for the job. First, AP Fill 700 was chosen to stabilize the soil around the manhole and seal the leaks. This product features low viscosity, making it ideal for permeating soil and sealing thin cracks. Additionally, it activates with moisture, which is perfect for damp environments like this one. Secondly, AP Lift 430 was selected to stabilize the house's footing. This high-density product cures quickly. Furthermore, it excels at filling voids and stabilizing soil near structures due to its high load-bearing capacity.

Painless Procedures

The repair process began with stabilizing the soil around the manhole. To achieve this, injection rods were driven into the ground around the structure. Then, AP Fill 700 was injected to seal the leaks and stabilize the surrounding soil. Next, the team focused on the large void areas around the house's footing. Once again, injection rods were utilized. This time, AP Lift 430 was injected to fill the voids and secure the foundation.

Rapid Results

The repair project yielded impressive outcomes. First and foremost, the manhole was successfully sealed. In addition, the surrounding soil was stabilized, preventing further erosion. The walkway, previously at risk, was now secure. Importantly, the voids adjacent to the house were filled, protecting the foundation. Remarkably, all these tasks were completed in less than a day. Finally, the repaired area was prepared for the county to add backfill around the newly stabilized manhole. This swift and effective solution ensured the safety of both the property and its residents.

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A broadband provider in Alpharetta, Georgia, contacted a local leak seal contractor after discovering water infiltration through a crawl space wall during heavy rainstorms. Over time, cracks had developed, allowing not only water but also sediment to enter, creating substantial voids outside the fissures upon inspection. Given the sensitivity and high value of the equipment housed within the facility, eliminating all potential leaks in the crawl space became a top priority.

Powerful Polymers

The technicians chose Alchatek’s Spetec PUR HighFoamer to address this leak. This highly expansive polyurethane grout creates a robust, waterproof barrier, effectively sealing a wide variety of leaks without extensive excavation. Spetec PUR HighFoamer’s remarkable expansion capacity (40x-50x) ensures comprehensive coverage and a tight seal, making it ideal for projects requiring minimal downtime. Its NSF 61 certification guarantees safety for potable water applications, positioning this product as a versatile and cost-effective choice for leak sealing projects across various industries.

Painless Procedures

The repair process consisted of three efficient steps. First, the crew drilled through the concrete wall, installing zerk fittings into each hole for subsequent injections. Next, they used an electric airless sprayer to inject water into each fitting, ensuring proper activation of the foam. Finally, they injected Spetec PUR HighFoamer through these fittings. This created a curtain wall of polyurethane foam that effectively sealed the cracks, prevented further water ingress, and filled voids in the soil substrate.

Rapid Results

Within 24 hours, the technicians successfully sealed all leaks in the underlying crawl space. This injection process was completed in a fraction of the time required for a full membrane replacement. Months after the repair, following several heavy rainstorms, the facility manager confirmed that the crawl space has remained completely dry, with no recurrence of leaks.

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Clearwater, Florida public works administrators faced a critical stormwater infrastructure issue. A junction box was leaking through multiple pipe penetrations, compromising system integrity. City officials invited infrastructure repair specialists Helicon to address the situation. This project showcases an innovative solution to a common urban infrastructure challenge, enhancing stormwater management capabilities for municipalities.

Powerful Polymers

Helicon chose AP Fill 700 as the primary repair material. This polymer offers several advantages for stormwater system repairs. Firstly, it's ideal for point grouting, allowing for precise application. Additionally, the polymer features a quick reaction time, enabling rapid repairs. Perhaps most importantly, AP Fill 700 excels at filling voids. These voids, created around the junction box due to ongoing leaks, needed to be addressed to ensure a comprehensive repair.

Painless Procedures

Injection rods were utilized to deliver the polymer solution. These rods were pushed down from the surface to the depth of the leak, ensuring targeted application. As the injections progressed, they served multiple purposes. The polymer filled existing voids, stabilized the surrounding roadbed, and effectively cut off the leaks. To ensure complete coverage, the injection rods were raised in stages. At each stage, additional injections were performed. This methodical approach guaranteed thorough treatment of the affected area.

Rapid Results

The repair operation proved remarkably efficient. In just two hours, the entire job was completed. More impressively, the leaks were sealed immediately upon application of the polymer. This rapid resolution minimized disruption to the city's infrastructure and daily operations. As a result of this swift and effective repair, city administrators expressed high satisfaction with the outcome. 

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The Bowline is an iconic 16-story apartment development located in the Wickham suburb of Newcastle, Australia. There is a secant pile constructed wall system in the basement of this new building. However, an issue arose during the drilling process, where the overlaps were not interlocked correctly, resulting in voids and substantial leaks. This situation posed a risk of sinkhole formation under the main road, the light rail system, and neighboring properties. Furthermore, it led to the accumulation of a substantial water pool within the construction site, impeding further excavation efforts. Geotech contractors The Injection Experts AU were called in to solve the problem.

Powerful Polymers

The following materials were chosen for the project: AP Fill 720 was selected for full curtain injection behind the secant pile wall system to stabilize and seal the voids and leaks. Oakum was chosen to plug large voids and gushing leaks due to its ability to quickly stop high-flow water intrusion when soaked in resin. Spetec AG200 was chosen for injecting minor leaks because of its ability to penetrate and seal hairline cracks.

Painless Procedures

AP Fill 720 was pumped through an Alchatek PolyShark pump into 1.1m x 13mm injection rods. This was done to fill the voids left by escaping sand and water and to create a waterproof barrier on the back side of the secant piles. Oakum, soaked in resin, was packed into voids and large holes. This measure aimed to slow down the ingress of sand and water into the basement while excavation and injection processes were ongoing. Spetec AG200 was injected through 13mm packers to seal any fine hairline cracks and to provide touch-up sealing around the injection rods.

Rapid Results

The repair efforts were ultimately a success. Through the strategic use of polyurethane grouting methods, the voids and leaks in the secant pile wall system were effectively sealed. This meticulous process not only waterproofed the basement area but also mitigated the risk of sinkholes forming under the nearby road, light rail, and neighboring lots. As a result, the project was able to proceed safely without further excavation issues, marking a triumphant conclusion to a challenging endeavor.

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Alchatek is a leading polyurethane grout manufacturer specializing in solutions for lifting slabs, stabilizing soil, and sealing leaks. Additionally, we offer expert technical support with decades of industry experience. Consequently, this helps clients build their businesses and complete crucial jobs successfully.

Cutting-Edge Products and Solutions

We take pride in providing advanced construction technologies that meet clients' needs and exceed expectations. Furthermore, Alchatek is a customer-oriented company manufacturing products in the USA, with a growing network of sales and service resources. We offer a wide range of polyurethane grout products and solutions as a trusted partner.

Specialized Divisions for Specific Needs

Our company is organized into three specialized divisions in order to better serve customers:

• Leak Seal Division: This division offers a complete line of products for sealing hairline leaks, gushing leaks, and multi-leak surfaces. These solutions prevent water ingress through concrete infrastructure like parking garages, culverts, basements, foundations, and sewer manholes.
• Geotechnical Division: This division offers a complete line of single-component products for soil stabilization and two-component products for concrete lifting, void filling, and infrastructure stabilization.
• Seawall Repair Network®: We operate the only national network of certified contractors for waterfront barrier repair, preservation, and protection. Seawall Repair Network® proprietary methods employ environmentally friendly, marine-safe materials, providing a non-destructive seawall repair solution at 80% less cost than replacement.

Unparalleled Technical and Marketing Support

Our industry-leading technical support team averages decades of experience and is incredibly responsive. Moreover, our marketing department supports qualified customers with product illustrations, customized brochures, truck graphics, educational videos, and guidance on strategies like online lead capture and internet advertising.

A Polyurethane Grout Manufacturer Focused on Customer Success

At Alchatek, commitment to customer success is deeply ingrained in our company culture. Likewise, our entire team understands the relationship between your success and ours. Therefore, we go to great lengths to assist customers and ensure their polyurethane grout projects succeed.

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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!

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Concrete leak repair is crucial for homeowners with leaks in basements or other below-grade spaces. Concrete can deteriorate over time due to imperfect construction, weather, wear, and unstable soil. However, effective solutions are available. This article explains how polyurethane leak seal grouts offer a cost-effective, durable fix for waterproofing your home.

The Problem with Standard Concrete Leak Repair Methods

Many homeowners initially try using sump pumps or hydraulic cement to remedy leaks. While these may provide a band-aid, they don't get to the root of the problem. Sump pumps only remove leaking water after it has already infiltrated. Hydraulic cement may temporarily stop the leak, but it is a rigid negative side bandied and thus prone to cracking as a structure shifts and settles.

The Benefits of Polyurethane Concrete Leak Repair

In contrast, experienced leak seal specialists rely on polyurethane grouts to stop leaks at their source. They inject this material into leaking cracks and joints. The grouts then react with water to form a flexible, watertight seal. Even as a structure naturally moves, the seal stays intact. Furthermore, polyurethane grouts provide industrial-grade strength while remaining safe for residential use.

The Importance of Professional Application

While injecting polyurethane grouts may sound simple, skilled professionals should handle it. Contractors undergo training to properly drill injection holes, prepare the components, and apply the product for maximum effectiveness. An expert will ensure the grout fully penetrates the leaks and forms a reliable, long-term seal.

Environmentally-Friendly Leak Repair

When selecting a contractor, look for one that uses NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 certified products. For example, most of Alchatek's leak seal grouts are NSF-certified to meet strict environmental standards. NSF certification involves both initial and ongoing testing, so you can trust these products always to be eco-friendly.

Key Takeaways

Concrete leak repair doesn't have to be a daunting task. Armed with the right products and expertise, a skilled contractor can provide an effective, long-lasting solution. When you choose a professional specializing in polyurethane leak seal grouts, you'll gain an ally in protecting your home against water intrusion.

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

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Construction and building maintenance rely on effective waterproofing to ensure longevity and structural integrity. In fact, waterproofing protects against water damage and moisture-related structural issues in residential homes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects. Positive side waterproofing and negative side waterproofing are two different methods that are used based on factors like construction design, budget, and water exposure.

Positive Side Waterproofing

Positive side waterproofing applies the material to the exterior or positive side of the building structure—the side exposed to the elements and potential water ingress. As a result, this method creates an outer surface barrier that prevents water penetration. Positive side waterproofing offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides effective protection by preventing water intrusion from entering the structure, as the externally applied material acts as a barrier. Secondly, water pressure actually assists in the process by pushing the cured material against the building, which helps to maintain a watertight seal. Finally, since the waterproofing layer is applied externally, it allows for various aesthetic finishes to be applied on the interior surface without compromising the functionality of the waterproofing system.

Negative Side Waterproofing

On the other hand, negative side waterproofing treats the interior surfaces of the building. Consequently, this method prevents water infiltration from the inside surface. While negative side waterproofing can be more cost-effective in the short term, it comes with several disadvantages. One major drawback is the limited protection it provides, as it does not protect against external water pressure. Additionally, negative side waterproofing fails to prevent the corrosion of reinforcing steel, as water can still reach it. Interior waterproofing may also impact the design and finishing of interior spaces. Furthermore, water pressure constantly pushes waterproofing material away from the surface, significantly reducing its service life compared to positive side waterproofing.

Choosing the Right Method

Various factors, including building design, site conditions, budget, and water exposure influence the choice between the positive side and negative side waterproofing. Additionally, it's important to understand that chemical grouting allows for positive side waterproofing application from the negative side without excavation. The decision should be based on a thorough assessment of the building's needs in consultation with an experienced contractor. 

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

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