It is important to be aware of our surroundings when walking anywhere and that includes the ground we are walking on. Take a glance outside. Odds are there is sinking concrete somewhere nearby. We have all seen uneven concrete slabs; from sidewalks and stoops to driveways and pool decks.
It is not uncommon for concrete to settle over time. The root of the problem lies within the soil underneath the concrete.
Different types of soil have varying load-bearing capacities, and the soil will compact and settle when that load-bearing capacity is exceeded. Water can move underneath the concrete and wash the soil away, leaving an unsupported void in its wake that will easily sink.
Concrete pool decks are likely to settle because of the construction process. Soil that is backfilled around the pool excavation won’t be as dense as the undisturbed soil farther away from the pool. Then when a heavy concrete slab is poured around the pool, any loose soil will compress under the slab’s weight. This causes sections of the concrete to sink.
Not only does settling concrete result in unsightly gaps, it also presents dangerous tripping hazards. You wouldn’t want your children’s feet to get caught on these gaps while they’re playing outside, or for your grandmother to take a spill on her way out to check the mail.
Common repair methods contractors have used in the past include completely replacing the problematic concrete or using mud jacking techniques to lift the sinking slabs. This involved pumping a mortar-based mixture of mud or slurry under the settling areas.
Superior Foundation Repair provides a less invasive and more reliable solution that combines the concept of mud jacking with state-of-the-art technology. We lift and stabilize sinking slabs with the PolyRenewal System.
The first step of this repair process is to drill small, 5/8″ holes into the sinking slabs. Injection ports are installed in each hole, then special equipment is used to inject high-density polyurethane foam underneath the slabs. This material expands to fill the voids, which allows for the precise lifting of the slabs. The ports are removed, and the holes are cleaned and patched with cement to finish the project installation.
PolyRenewal is lightweight, yet durable and waterproof so that it will not wash out from underneath the slab. Its quick curing time allows for traffic flow to continue just 15 minutes after installation. PolyRenewal is a functional repair method that can be applied to a variety of projects. It can be used to lift sidewalks, driveways, garages, roads, bridges, and much more!
If you have cracked, sinking, and unsightly concrete, contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation inspection. Our expert team can give you peace of mind by helping you create a safe living environment!