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Polyurethane Concrete Lifting & Levelling

Serving All of Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario

How to Fix a Sinking Concrete Slab With Polyurethane Foam

Articles, Concrete Lifting, Levelling, Void Filling & Stabilization

Is a sinking concrete slab diminishing the appeal and safety of your property? Whether it’s your driveway, patio, walkways, basement floors and more, experiencing this common issue, there’s a reliable and efficient solution to consider. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the concrete lifting process, a proven method for fixing sinking concrete slabs without the need for complete replacement.

Why Does Concrete Sink?

Sinking concrete slabs occur due to various reasons, such as soil erosion, poor compaction, and natural settling over time. Not only can this cause tripping hazards and water drainage issues, but it also affects the aesthetic and value of your property. Fortunately, with advancements in repair techniques, there’s no need to endure the disruption and expense of tearing out and replacing your concrete.

Settled Concrete Slab Repair

Concrete lifting, particularly using polyurethane foam, offers a cutting-edge solution to this problem. Here’s a closer look at how this process can fix your sinking concrete slab efficiently:

  1. Preparation and Access: On the scheduled day, the team arrives with specialized equipment housed in a trailer. Thanks to the flexible hose, which can extend to almost any length, the equipment can stay parked while the crew accesses the repair site.
  2. Strategic Drilling: The first step involves drilling injection holes into the concrete slab. These holes are strategically placed to ensure the entire area needing repair is effectively covered.
  3. Injection of Polyurethane Foam: A two-part liquid polyurethane foam, specifically engineered for concrete lifting, is then injected beneath the slab. This foam is designed to infiltrate air spaces, filling voids and raising the concrete slab to its correct level.
  4. Controlled Expansion: The foam has an average reaction time of just 12 seconds, expanding in a controlled manner to avoid any damage to the concrete. It reaches approximately a 3 to 6-foot diameter beneath the slab, ensuring thorough coverage and lifting.
  5. Precision Lifting: Our skilled technicians employ a “bunny hop” technique, moving from hole to hole to gradually and carefully lift the slab. This method minimizes the risk of breaking the concrete, a testament to the expertise and precision of our team.
  6. Final Touches: After the lifting process is complete, the injection holes are filled and the site is cleaned up, leaving your concrete slab looking as good as new.

Why Choose Polyurethane Foam Lifting?

Choosing this method for fixing your sinking concrete slab comes with numerous benefits:

  • Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional methods, this process causes minimal disruption to your property and daily routine.
  • Cost-Effective: It’s significantly more affordable than concrete replacement, offering a budget-friendly alternative without compromising quality.
  • Long-Lasting: Polyurethane foam provides a durable solution, with the lifted concrete remaining stable and level for years.
  • Quick and Efficient: The entire lifting process can be completed quickly, allowing you to use the repaired area soon after the job is done.

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Conclusion

Fixing a sinking concrete slab doesn’t have to be a daunting or expensive endeavour. With the concrete lifting process, specifically utilizing polyurethane foam, you can achieve a lasting solution that restores safety, functionality, and aesthetics to your property. Our experienced technicians, equipped with specialized knowledge and equipment, ensure that your concrete lifting project is executed flawlessly, providing peace of mind and significant savings over traditional replacement methods. If your property is facing this common issue, consider the efficient and effective option of concrete lifting.

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Rescuing a Sinking Basement Floor: The Slab-Jack Kings Solution

Basement Floors, Concrete Lifting, Levelling, Void Filling & Stabilization, Residential Projects

Are you worried about a sinking basement floor? Fret not; Slab-Jack Kings is here to provide a reliable solution. Recently, we had the opportunity to assist a customer who had experienced their basement floor sinking up to 3.5-4 inches at its lowest point in just six months. This issue arose due to voids hidden beneath the slab, but our expert lifting crew worked their magic and restored the floor to its proper position, right up to the bottom plates of the wall. However, this is just one example of the countless successful basement floor lifts we’ve completed over the years.

sinking basement floor winnipeg

In Manitoba, it’s no secret that sub-bases can be problematic, with the ground heaving, thawing, and settling. Unfortunately, basement floors are not immune to these changes either. Before you consider the costly and disruptive process of tearing out your concrete and waiting for a redo, consider Slab-Jack Kings. We offer a quick and hassle-free solution. Contact us for a free consultation and estimate, and in most cases, we can repair your sunken basement floor in less than a single workday!

Our process is not only swift but also efficient, leaving your basement floor looking as good as new. After we’ve patched the dime-sized injection holes, you can start reinstalling your floors and moving your furniture back into place. It’s like your floor had never settled in the first place. When we’re done, it’s back to business as usual, and you’ll be free to enjoy your basement without the worry of a sinking floor.

If you want to give your basement floor the lift it deserves, simply fill out our Request an Estimate form. One of our friendly team members will be more than happy to help you get started on the path to a stable, worry-free basement.

To ensure your basement floor is in the best condition, it’s important to act promptly.

Causes of a Sinking Basement Floor:

There are various reasons for basement floors to sink. One common cause is voids beneath the concrete, which can result from factors like erosion, water drainage issues, or even the settling of the earth over time.

The Slab-Jack Kings Advantage:

Our experienced team uses advanced techniques to lift sunken basement floors. We inject specialized materials through small holes in the concrete, which expand and raise the slab back to its original position. This method is cost-effective, minimally invasive, and delivers long-lasting results.

Preventing Future Issues:

It’s crucial to address sinking basement floors promptly to avoid further damage. Slab-Jack Kings can not only lift your floor but also provide solutions to prevent future problems, such as improving drainage and addressing soil settling issues.

Ready to give your basement floor the lift it deserves? Fill out our Request an Estimate form, and one of our friendly team members will be more than happy to help you get started on the path to a stable, worry-free basement.

If you like what you see, stay connected with us on social media! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay updated with the latest Slab-Jack Kings news and project updates. Your basement’s transformation awaits!

Causes of Sunken Concrete and How to Prevent It

Articles, Concrete Lifting, Levelling, Void Filling & Stabilization, Concrete Void Filling & Stabilization

If you’ve ever noticed sunken concrete on your property, you’re not alone. Many homeowners encounter this issue, and it can impact both safety and aesthetics. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the various causes of sunken concrete and provide valuable insights on prevention and solutions to safeguard your property investment.

Common Causes of Sunken Concrete

  1. Soil Erosion: One of the primary culprits behind sunken concrete is soil erosion. Over time, heavy rainfall and runoff can wash away the soil beneath your concrete surfaces. This erosion weakens the foundation, leading to uneven surfaces and cracks in your concrete.
  2. Poor Compaction During Construction: The quality of construction plays a crucial role in preventing concrete settlement. Inadequate soil compaction during initial construction can create voids beneath the concrete, causing it to sink over time. Proper compaction is vital to avoid future settlement issues.
  3. Water Infiltration and Drainage Issues: Water infiltration poses a significant threat to concrete. Prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken the concrete’s integrity, leading to settlement problems. Effective drainage systems are essential to maintain concrete stability and subbase integrity.
  4. Tree Roots and Vegetation Growth: The growth of tree roots and vegetation near your concrete slabs can contribute to settlement. Tree roots can exert significant pressure on the concrete, causing it to sink or crack. Managing root pressure through techniques like root barriers and smart landscaping practices can help prevent damage.
  5. Soil Consolidation Over Time: Natural soil consolidation is a gradual process where soil settles and compacts. While this is a natural occurrence, it can result in concrete sinking if not managed properly. Monitoring soil consolidation and taking preventive measures are key to maintaining concrete stability.
  6. Critters: Small animals, such as moles or groundhogs, can create voids underneath concrete by digging tunnels.These voids remove support from the slab, leading to sinking and instability.

Preventing Sunken Concrete

To prevent sunken concrete, consider the following measures:

  1. Proper Site Preparation and Compaction: Strong foundations are essential for long-term concrete stability. Ensure correct site preparation and compaction during construction to prevent future issues.
  2. Adequate Drainage Systems: Install effective drainage solutions and direct water away from your concrete slabs to maintain their integrity. Regular grading and maintenance are crucial.
  3. Managing Tree Roots and Vegetation: Implement root barriers and smart landscaping practices to protect your concrete from root-related damage while preserving your greenery.
  4. Routine Inspections and Maintenance: Regular inspections help identify issues early and allow for prompt action. Implement a DIY inspection checklist to monitor your concrete’s condition proactively.
  5. Proactive Techniques like Polyurethane Foam Injection: Explore proactive techniques like polyurethane foam injection for concrete void filling and stabilizing to provide long-lasting preventative measures to settlement issues.

Self-Assessment Guide

This self-assessment guide helps homeowners identify potential concrete problems. If you find issues beyond minor cosmetic imperfections, consult with professionals (Slab-Jack Kings!) for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate solutions. Here’s the simple self-assessment guide to help homeowners evaluate the condition of their concrete surfaces to determine when action is necessary:

Self-Assessment Guide for Concrete Slabs

1. Surface Inspection:
– Examine the entire concrete surface for noticeable cracks or fissures, and note their size and location.
– Check for areas where the concrete appears uneven, sunken, or raised. Walk carefully to detect any unevenness.

2. Water Drainage:
– Observe how water drains on the concrete. Ensure that water flows away from the surface and doesn’t accumulate.
– Inspect nearby drainage systems (e.g., gutters, downspouts) to confirm they’re not causing water pooling.

3. Vegetation and Tree Roots:
– Inspect the proximity of trees and vegetation to the concrete. Look for signs of root intrusion or pressure.
– Note visible cracks or uplifts caused by tree roots.

4. Visual Discoloration:
– Check the concrete’s color and surface texture for unusual discolorations or rough patches.
– Note any areas that appear significantly different from the rest of the surface.

5. Safety Hazards:
– Look for tripping hazards, especially on walking or driving surfaces.
– Identify loose or dislodged concrete pieces that could pose safety risks.

6. Overall Stability:
– Assess the stability and firmness of the concrete as you walk across it.
– Pay attention to areas that feel hollow or give way, and listen for unusual sounds or vibrations.

7. Crack Width Measurement:
– Measure the width of any cracks you find using a ruler or measuring tape. Record these measurements.

8. Photographic Documentation:
– Take clear photographs of areas with concerns, cracks, or noticeable issues. These photos can be useful for professional consultations.

9. Maintenance History:
– Review the maintenance history of the concrete, including past repairs or modifications, for context.

10. Professional Consultation:
– If you discover significant cracks, substantial sinking, or structural concerns during your assessment, consider seeking the opinion of concrete experts or professionals for a thorough evaluation and solutions.

DIY Prevention Methods:

Empower yourself with proactive DIY-friendly solutions to prevent concrete settlement and reduce the risk of minor issues. Implementing small yet impactful steps such as regular surface cleaning, sealing cracks, and improving drainage can help maintain your concrete’s integrity. By taking these measures, you can play an active role in preserving your concrete surfaces and preventing them from sinking or deteriorating.

When to Seek Professional Help:

Recognizing when it’s time to enlist the expertise of professionals is essential in effectively addressing complex settlement problems. If you observe significant concrete sinking, extensive cracks, or structural issues beyond minor cosmetic imperfections, it’s advisable to seek the assistance of experienced concrete lifting experts. Their specialized knowledge and advanced techniques can provide comprehensive solutions to ensure the safety and longevity of your concrete slabs.

The Long-term Cost Savings:

Investing in prevention pays off in the long run, saving you on costly repairs and maintenance expenses.

Common Causes Of Sunken Concrete Can Be Prevented

Understanding the causes of sunken concrete and taking preventive measures is crucial for safety and longevity. Contact Slab-Jack Kings today for a free estimate and lasting solutions to protect your property’s value.

Prevention is the key to keeping your concrete on solid ground. By understanding the common causes of sunken concrete and implementing preventive measures, you can ensure the safety, stability, and longevity of your property’s concrete slabs.

Experiencing uneven concrete on your property? Don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Now that you know the common causes of sunken concrete, contact Slab-Jack Kings today to explore your options and find a lasting solution that protects your property’s safety and value!

Request a free estimate or a callback today!

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causes of sunken concrete winnipeg void under sidewalk caused by soil settling slab-jack kings void under sidewalk due to poor soil compaction causes of sunken concrete

My Pool Deck Sounds Hollow! What should I do?

Concrete Lifting, Levelling, Void Filling & Stabilization, Concrete Void Filling & Stabilization, Pool Decks, Residential Projects

My Pool Deck Sounds Hollow

why is my pool deck cracking?my pool deck sounds hollow

Why Are Cracks Forming In My Pool Deck? 

Notice cracks forming in your pool deck? Have a baseball bat lying around? Some simple ways to find potential dangerous voids beneath pool decks starts with checking for cracks, critter-made holes around the edges of the slab, settlement of adjacent landscaping bricks, as well as tapping the surface with a baseball bat to determine if it is hollow or not.

Spot the Void & Fill the Void To Prevent Safety Hazards & Settlement

Spot the void, fill the void, prevent settlement and potentially, some sprained ankles too! High foot-traffic areas with less noticeable voids such as pool decks can become very dangerous, real quick. Preventative maintenance is key. Make it an annual goal of yours every spring to check for voids using some of our simple tips.

Free Concrete Lifting Estimates within Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario!

We are a small, Canadian, family-based business that provides professional consultations, estimates and applications towards concrete slab lifting, levelling, void filling, stabilization and concrete under-slab insulation using polyurethane foam.

Our lifting professionals are equipped with vast knowledge and experience with concrete and this has made it possible to provide a personalized solution to any and all concrete problems.

Stop the threat of tripping or slipping on an uneven or out-of-level, poured concrete slab.

Contact Slab-Jack Kings today for an uplifting experience!

Need an estimate for a residential polyurethane concrete lifting project? Fill out our Request an Estimate form and one of our family members would be more than happy to help get you started.

Like what you see!? Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram!

 

What CAN’T Be Raised With Foam or Mud?

Concrete Lifting, Levelling, Void Filling & Stabilization, Residential Projects

Can All Concrete Be Restored? When is a slab too damaged to raise vs replace it?

What CAN’T Be Restored With Foam Jacking or Mudjacking

1. Precast or hollow cast steps and staircases:

Can All Concrete Be Restored

Unfortunately we aren’t able to lift staircases like this. If you cannot see a slab beneath it then that means it would be tied into the house wall or it might also be fastened with a helical pile at the base.

If the step or staircase were sitting on top of a poured concrete slab, such as a patio, landing, driveway, etc. it could be possible. However, concrete raising materials for concrete lifting are made specially to lift poured concrete slabs and simply attempting to lift staircases like these with concrete lifting material can cost almost as much as replacement would be due to material cost and ends in breakage of the step or staircase itself, or your house foundation.

Can All Concrete Be Restored

We recommend removing your hollow cast or precast step and replacing it with another staircase. If you’re finding you’ve had these settlement issues only over the past few years, installing a wooden staircase, as opposed to a concrete staircase would definitely release such a heavy burden on this unstable soil area. This would also be another cost-effective alternative solution for you. We usually recommend these over concrete staircases in the majority of the situations like yours.

2. Broken or overburden concrete with little-to-no rebar reinforcement:

Can All Concrete Be Restored

Unfortunately when your concrete is too broken up, has too many larger gaps that are too close together, your concrete was not poured thick enough, too narrow or with not enough-no rebar, we cannot lift it.

Can All Concrete Be Restored

The reason being is because concrete raising materials cannot defy gravity. They want to move in the path of least resistance, which means that these gaps and broken sections will not only allow the product to seep upwards towards the surface of your concrete, but they will also likely make it worse.

Can All Concrete Be Restored

Concrete itself is not strong enough to withhold the pressure of a lifting product on its own when it is not properly reinforced with steel rebar.

3. Patio Stones/Landscaping Bricks, Asphalt, Etc:

You will need to contact a landscaping company in order to do this as this involves mechanical raising and levelling. Slab-Jack Kings uses polyurethane raising, levelling, void filling and stabilizing foam systems that are designed specifically for application and use beneath poured, slab-on-grade concrete slabs. A mudjacking or tindlestone mixture will not work on these either. If you are unsure on whether or not you have a poured, slab-on-grade concrete slab, please visit our gallery to view some photos and you will know right away once you see one of our photos.

4. Structural Pours/Slabs Utilizing Helical Piles:

If your concrete was poured on a pile (also known as a screw pile, screw anchor, or a helical anchor), this means that you have a ground anchoring system attached to a slab. This makes it a structural pour.

Footings and grade beams may have been poured with screw piles, but poured concrete slabs would only utilize screw piles if they were meant to be structural pours. If you are able to ask your home/building contractor whether or not it is a structural pour, we advise you do so for your own future reference in case you notice settlement.

This is most common with concrete staircases, & garage and basement floor grade beams and footings. If you have a structural pour that needs to be raised, you will need to contact a foundation specialist to inspect and mechanically raise or replace your structural slab.

If you are only worried about a loss of aggregates and you do not need any lifting done, we recommend void filling with our stabilizing foam systems to lock in your aggregates and keep out any water or critter infiltration. This must be done from above (injecting the product through the top of the slab with injection holes) if there is no complete access from the sides. If there is enough access from the sides, we also recommend that you fill the area with as much 1/4 down limestone as possible prior to requesting a void filling estimate. What we do in this situation once this has been done is void fill the area in order to fill any gaps and airspaces to lock in the aggregates in order to halt any water or critter infiltration into the affected area(s).

Can All Concrete Be Restored?

Ultimately, the answer to the question: “Can All Concrete Be Restored?” is no. However, if none of these apply to you… Contact Slab-Jack Kings for a free foam jacking estimate today!

Free Concrete Lifting Estimates within Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario!

We are a small, Canadian, family-based business that provides professional consultations, estimates and applications towards concrete slab lifting, levelling, void filling, stabilization and concrete under-slab insulation using polyurethane foam.

Our lifting professionals are equipped with vast knowledge and experience with concrete and this has made it possible to provide a personalized solution to any and all concrete problems.

Stop the threat of tripping or slipping on an uneven or out-of-level, poured concrete slab.

Contact Slab-Jack Kings today for an uplifting experience!

Need an estimate for a residential polyurethane concrete lifting project? Fill out our Request an Estimate form and one of our family members would be more than happy to help get you started.

Like what you see!? Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram!

How to Maintain Your Concrete After a Lift: The Exterior Post-Lift Maintenance Guide

Agricultural Projects, Commercial Projects, Concrete Lifting, Levelling, Void Filling & Stabilization, Driveways, Grain Bin Floors, Patios & Porches, Pool Decks, Residential Projects, Sidewalks

How to Maintain Your Concrete After a Lift: The Exterior Post-Lift Maintenance Guide

Raising the Surrounding Grade – Imperative!

How to Maintain Your Concrete After a Lift

After an exterior concrete lifting job, the customer is responsible for raising any of the adjacent grade, soils, landscaping stones, etc. that surround the edges of the newly-raised concrete. Although not many companies suggest or even break down how to maintain your concrete after a lift, this is done to ensure the foam is not exposed to the UV rays after the lift and ensure for proper water drainage away from the area. The only thing that can break down concrete lifting, levelling, and stabilizing foams are the ultraviolet rays of the sun, which is why it is imperative that this step is completed after Slab-Jack Kings completes an exterior concrete lifting job. Preventative maintenance is key.

This customer did such an amazing job that I just had to use these photos as an example.

How to Maintain Your Concrete After a Lift

Some more examples are as follows: adding extra topsoil and grass, raising or adding landscaping bricks and/or decorative stone, etc.

Proper Drainage & Downspouts

Raising the grade also allows for proper drainage away from any previously settled grade and concrete to eliminate as much aggregate wash-out as possible. Making sure all downspouts are properly extended so that water drains down towards the street and that water is not accumulating or draining adjacent to the concrete post-lift is also imperative in order for any warranty to be effective.

how to maintain your concrete after a lift

If you have any questions about your exterior concrete post-lift maintenance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We want you to get the longest life out of your concrete lifting repair!

Free Concrete Lifting Estimates within Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario!

We are a small, Canadian, family-based business that provides professional consultations, estimates and application towards concrete slab lifting, levelling, void filling, stabilization and concrete under-slab insulation using polyurethane foam, also known as foam jacking.

Our lifting professionals are equipped with a vast knowledge and experience with concrete and this has made it possible to provide a personalized solution to any and all concrete problems.

Stop the threat of tripping or slipping on an uneven or out-of-level, poured concrete slab.

Contact Slab-Jack Kings today for an uplifting experience!

Need an estimate for a residential or commercial foam jacking project? Fill out our Request an Estimate form and one of our family members would be more than happy to help get you started.

Like what you see!? Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram!