Considering a DIY Approach to Polyurethane Concrete Lifting? Read This First!
Sinking and settling concrete is a common issue many Atlantic Canada homeowners face. The good news is that an efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution is available: lifting and levelling concrete with polyurethane foam. Polyurethane concrete lifting, also known as foam jacking or slab jacking, has gained popularity as an excellent alternative to the time-consuming process of mudjacking and the expensive process of replacing concrete slabs. But is polyurethane concrete lifting a suitable DIY project? In short, no. The concrete lifting experts at Maritime Concrete Lifting are here to explain why and delve deeper into this remarkable concrete repair technique. Read on to learn more!
Understanding Polyurethane Concrete Lifting
Concrete slabs in the Maritimes can sink and settle over time, leading to various problems. Left unattended, uneven or broken concrete slabs can cause damage to the surrounding areas and create opportunities for water leakage into your home or business. Polyurethane concrete lifting involves raising sunken concrete slabs with polyurethane foam back to their original position. It is commonly used for repairing driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, garage and basement floors, warehouse floors, and even highways. The process entails injecting polyurethane foam beneath the slab, which lifts it back to its original position. While the concept may seem simple, it's crucial to have a professional handle the job to ensure the appropriate materials are used and the work is executed correctly. Polyurethane concrete lifting offers numerous benefits and is an ideal solution for repairing sunken concrete slabs instead of opting for replacement.
Why Does Concrete Sink and Settle?
Concrete settlement occurs when a concrete slab gradually sinks into the ground, causing an uneven surface. Various factors contribute to concrete settling, including water erosion or improper drainage during installation, tree roots (especially if you live near oak trees), and natural settling due to changes in temperature or moisture content beneath and around the slab. Other common causes include poor soil compaction during construction, freeze/thaw cycles, heavy vehicles on the slab, and low-quality concrete or installation. If any of these factors are responsible for your sunken and settled concrete slabs, hiring a professional is best rather than attempting a DIY fix.
Polyurethane Foam: The Ultimate Solution for Sunken Concrete
Polyurethane concrete lifting stands out as the most effective method for lifting sunken concrete, and here's why. It's lighter than the traditional concrete mudjacking material, making it easier to work with. Additionally, the application process is much more straightforward. With polyurethane foam, you require a smaller crew, less time, and reduced labour. The process begins by drilling small holes in the slab and injecting the polyurethane foam into the ground below. As the foam expands, it fills the voids beneath the slab and elevates it back to its original position. Once the concrete slab is levelled, the holes are patched, and the job is complete. Lifting and levelling concrete with polyurethane is fast, efficient, environmentally friendly, and provides a long-lasting solution for sunken and settled concrete slabs.
Leave Concrete Lifting to the Professionals
While it might be tempting to consider a DIY approach, lifting and levelling concrete slabs is a complex task best left to professionals. Attempting to do it yourself could lead to unexpected complications and potentially cause more damage to the slab or create additional problems around your property. Homeowners who take the DIY route often experiment with various methods, which can be costly and ineffective, ultimately resulting in the same issues. To avoid exacerbating the problem or incurring higher repair costs, we recommend hiring a professional (like the pros at Maritime Concrete Lifting!). This ensures that the job is done right the first time, giving you peace of mind.
Polyurethane Concrete Lifting: Not as Simple as it Appears
Concrete lifting is not a DIY project. Attempting to lift and level sunken slabs on your own poses risks to your home's safety and may end up costing more than hiring a professional. We understand that DIY can be appealing, especially for budget-conscious individuals. However, when it comes to concrete lifting, trust us – it's better to leave it to the experts. At Maritime Concrete Lifting, we offer expert concrete lifting and levelling services throughout Atlantic Canada that fit your needs and budget. If you need a sunken slab levelled, don't hesitate to contact us today. We'll have it lifted in no time, ensuring a safe and long-lasting solution for your sinking and settling concrete woes.