At The Concrete Lifter we pride ourselves on being on the cutting edge of technology for concrete lifting. Gone are the days of mudjacking and slow setting foundations, we use state of the art Polyurethane foam. It’s fast acting, fast drying, and lasts a lifetime! In this blog post we are going to take a closer look at Polyurethane foam and how it works so well with concrete lifting.
What is Polyurethane Foam?
Polyurethane foam is a lightweight, high-density material that is injected beneath concrete surfaces to lift, level, and stabilize them. It is a flexible and durable substance that expands upon application, filling voids and compacting the soil underneath, which effectively raises the concrete slab to its original position. The foam is composed of two primary components that, when combined, react and expand—creating a stable and firm support structure beneath the concrete.
This unique ability to expand and fill voids makes polyurethane foam the perfect material for addressing sunken sidewalks, driveways, patios, and even foundation slabs. Unlike traditional methods that involve replacing or tearing out the concrete, polyurethane foam is a minimally invasive solution that saves you both time and money.
How Does Polyurethane Foam Work?
The process of lifting concrete with polyurethane foam is simple yet highly effective:
Injection: Small, strategically placed holes are drilled into the sunken concrete slab. A specialized injection system is used to inject the polyurethane foam underneath the slab.
Expansion: Once the foam is injected, it begins to expand, filling any gaps or voids beneath the concrete and providing support for the slab. This expansion is controlled, allowing the foam to raise the concrete back to its original position.
Curing: After the foam has expanded and the slab is lifted, it cures and hardens in a short amount of time (typically within 15 minutes to an hour), creating a solid, stable foundation beneath the concrete surface.
The result is a leveled concrete surface that has been restored to its proper alignment and is ready for use almost immediately.
The Longevity of Polyurethane Foam
One of the greatest advantages of using polyurethane foam is its exceptional longevity. When properly installed, polyurethane foam can last for decades without needing any significant maintenance. The foam’s ability to bond securely with the concrete and underlying soil creates a long-lasting solution that helps prevent future settling or sinking of the concrete.
Polyurethane foam is highly resistant to environmental factors like moisture, heat, and freeze-thaw cycles. This resilience ensures that your concrete stays level and stable, regardless of the changing weather conditions. Whether you’re dealing with the harsh summer heat or the freezing cold of winter, polyurethane foam can withstand it all and keep your surfaces in excellent condition.
Why Polyurethane Foam is the Best Choice for Concrete Lifting
There are several key benefits to using polyurethane foam for concrete lifting, which makes it a top choice for homeowners and businesses alike:
Quick and Efficient: The injection process is fast, and once the foam has expanded and cured, the concrete is ready for use almost immediately. You don’t have to wait for hours or days to see results.
Minimal Disruption: Unlike traditional concrete replacement or other repair methods, polyurethane foam injection requires minimal disruption to your property. There are no heavy machinery or large-scale demolitions involved, which means less mess and fewer disruptions to your daily routine.
Cost-Effective: Polyurethane foam is a cost-effective solution compared to more invasive repair methods. It allows us to fix sunken concrete without the need to replace the entire slab, saving you money on labor, materials, and downtime.
Eco-Friendly: Polyurethane foam is an environmentally friendly option that doesn’t require tearing up existing concrete or soil. By stabilizing and lifting the concrete without the need for removal, we are minimizing waste and the overall impact on the environment.
Long-Term Stability: The foam’s durability and ability to expand and solidify beneath the concrete ensures long-term stability. It helps prevent further sinking or cracking, offering a solution that will last for years to come.
Versatile: Polyurethane foam can be used for a variety of concrete applications, including driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, and even foundations. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for virtually any concrete lifting project.
Polyurethane Foam in Action: Real-World Results
We’ve seen firsthand how effective polyurethane foam can be in restoring concrete surfaces to their original level. Whether it’s an uneven driveway that has caused tripping hazards or a sinking sidewalk that needs to be repaired, polyurethane foam provides a quick, reliable, and long-lasting fix. Homeowners and businesses alike have turned to this method for everything from simple concrete leveling to foundation stabilization.
Conclusion: The Future of Concrete Repair with Polyurethane Foam
Polyurethane foam is a game-changer in the world of concrete lifting and restoration. It cures in less than an hour and lasts for years. It’s super strong and durable, meaning that your lifted concrete will stay lifted and level for years to come. If you’re interested in learning more about our process and what we do, please check out our Our Process Page for more information.