When you have uneven concrete slabs, it looks unattractive and invites liability in the form of trip-and-fall accidents. This is why you need polyurethane foam for slab lifting.
The Benefits of Using Polyurethane Foam for Slab Lifting
Despite being a durable material, concrete is not without its limitations. Over time, heavy traffic and weight can compromise the strength of concrete slabs. These slabs can sink after a while, resulting in uneven ground. When this happens, accidents can occur. People can trip over the uneven slabs, while heavy equipment can drive them down even further.
This is where slab lifting comes in. Lifting concrete is an effective way to return surfaces to their original height. But what is the best foam for lifting concrete?
Some companies employ mud jacking to lift slabs, which use a mixture of Portland cement, sand, soil, and water. But, this “mud” mixture is not resistant to water and does not last very long. In comparison, using polyurethane foam for concrete lifting has several benefits.
Highly Durable
Polyurethane foam is extremely durable and can support up to 14,000 pounds per square foot. By injecting poly foam underneath the slabs to effectively “jack” them up, you can ensure a stronger base for the concrete. This means the concrete slabs are less likely to sink again.
Polyurethane is highly sought after not just for slab lifting but also in the general construction industry. What is the use of polyurethane in construction? Why is this foam used in construction in the first place?
Apart from concrete leveling, polyurethane foam works best for insulation and filling gaps. Many contractors prefer polyurethane foam because it is durable, lightweight, and versatile.
Lasts a Long Time
How long does polyurethane concrete lifting last? The exact lifespan of polyurethane foam varies depending on application and use. But, even with normal wear and tear, poly foam can last decades – even lifetimes, when handled and maintained properly. In comparison, the result of mud jacking only lasts 5 to 7 years.
Easy to Install and Clean Up
Another advantage of polyurethane foam for slab lifting is that it’s easy to install and clean up. The process involves drilling small holes in the concrete into which the foam can be injected. Because the process is not invasive, it does not require the use of heavy equipment. Unlike older methods, it also does not involve excavation.
Waterproof
Polyurethane foam is hydrophobic, which means it repels water. This is a valuable property because it can prevent erosion – a phenomenon usually caused by water. When injected, polyurethane foam will harden and remain hard even as it comes into contact with liquids. This is in stark contrast to mud, which absorbs water quickly.
Environmentally Friendly
The use of polyurethane foam for slab lifting is also environmentally friendly because it is safe to come into contact with drinking water. As such, you don’t have to worry about installing any protective or additional components to restrict contact.
Allows for Better Control
Polyurethane foam injections also allow for better control. You can control how much or how little you inject into the drilled holes. You can do this little by little to lift the concrete slabs to the correct height without going overboard.
More Economical Than a Full Replacement
Many people immediately jump to a full replacement when faced with uneven concrete slabs. But, if the concrete slabs are perfectly fine, you only need to lift them up to match the rest of the ground. Compared to a full replacement, which will require excavation and the installation of a new slab, slab lifting is significantly less expensive.
Less Time-Consuming
Slab lifting with the help of poly foam is also more efficient. The entire process won’t take long, especially compared to a full replacement. Plus, after installing the foam, the concrete slabs are ready to use again in 15 minutes.
Foam Concrete vs Polyurethane Foam
Polyurethane foam is a polymer consisting of several materials that react to create a foam. On the other hand, foam concrete is a cement-based substance with foam mixed in.
What is the purpose of foam concrete? Like polyurethane foam, foam concrete works as a void filler. Unlike polyurethane foam, though, foam concrete is not a popular choice for slab lifting.
What is the benefit of using foamed concrete? Even though it is not as durable and easy to install, foamed concrete is waterproof and affordable. It expands rather quickly, making it easy to fill gaps.
The Bottom Line
All things considered, it is clear that using polyurethane foam for slab lifting is the best method available. Compared to others, polyurethane foam is more durable, long-lasting, and effective.