Are you a property owner dealing with an uneven concrete floor? If so, don’t despair–it probably doesn’t need to be replaced. In most cases, a concrete floor can be leveled using polyjacking. Unlike mudjacking, which requires drilling large holes in the slab so that heavy grout can be pumped underneath it, polyjacking involves injecting foam resin under the slab through small, dime-sized holes drilled into the surface of the affected area.
In this article, we’ll review why concrete floors sometimes become uneven, how concrete leveling using polyjacking works, and more.
What Is Concrete Floor Leveling Using Polyjacking?
Concrete floor leveling using polyjacking is a revolutionary technique in concrete repair. This process is the most efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to fix sunken or uneven concrete surfaces. It involves the injection of high-density polyurethane foam beneath the concrete slab. The foam expands and exerts pressure on the existing layer, returning it to its original position.
Benefits of Polyjacking
There are several benefits to choosing polyjacking for your concrete repair needs.
- It is quick – Most polyjacking jobs are completed within a few hours.
- There is minimal disruption – Because no excavation is required, there is minimal disruption to the surrounding area, making it ideal for busy commercial areas or residential spaces.
- It is cost-effective – Polyjacking is less expensive than digging up and replacing the concrete floor.
- It is environmentally friendly – The foam used in the process is non-toxic. It does not emit harmful chemicals, making it safe in any environment (including areas with children or pets).
Where Can Polyjacking Be Used?
Polyjacking is suitable for a wide range of concrete surfaces, including driveways, sidewalks, patios, garage floors, and commercial flooring.
How Is Polyjacking Performed?
To perform polyjacking, a professional contractor will follow a step-by-step process to ensure the project’s success:
Step 1: Identify the Problem Area
A professional contractor will thoroughly inspect the affected area to identify why the concrete slab became uneven and determine the best course of action. They will also ensure that polyjacking is the appropriate method and the slab is in good enough condition to be lifted.
Step 2: Prepare the Work Area
This includes removing any debris, cleaning the concrete slab’s surface, and checking for any underground utilities that could be affected during the process. The contractor will also mark the areas where the polyurethane foam will be injected.
Step 3: Drill Holes
Once the area is prepped, the contractor will drill small, strategically-placed holes into the sunken slab. The size and location of the holes will vary depending on the size and shape of the slab, as well as the extent of the settlement.
Step 4: Inject the Polyjacking Foam
The foam is a two-part system that is mixed on-site and pumped into the voids beneath the slab. The foam expands and hardens, lifting the slab and filling the voids underneath it. The foam can lift several thousand pounds per square foot, making it a powerful and effective solution.
Step 5: Level the Slab
Once the foam has been injected, the contractor will monitor the process to ensure the slab is lifted evenly.
Step 6: Patch the Holes
After the slab has been lifted and leveled, the contractor will patch the small holes in the concrete slab. They will use a color-matching material to blend the patches with the surrounding area for a seamless finish.
What Causes Uneven Concrete Slabs?
Various factors can cause uneven concrete slabs, including:
- Expansive soil – One of the most common causes of uneven concrete slabs is expansive soil. Expansive soil contains minerals that can absorb and release water, causing the soil to expand and contract and leading to cracks and heaving in the concrete slab.
- Poor drainage – If the soil underneath the slab is constantly moist due to inadequate drainage, it can cause the soil to expand and shift, leading to cracks and unevenness in the concrete slab.
- Erosion-prone soil – Soils that are prone to erosion may cause the concrete slab to shift due to soil movement underneath the slab. This can occur due to heavy rains or other natural factors disturbing the soil.
- Improper site preparation – Soil that was not compacted before the slab was poured can also contribute to uneven concrete slabs.
- Invasive tree roots – As trees grow, their roots can push against the concrete slab, causing it to shift and crack over time. This can occur even when the tree is located some distance away from the slab, as roots can extend far from the tree’s base.
What about Using Self-Leveling Compound to Level a Concrete Floor?
When leveling a concrete floor, self-leveling compound can be a useful solution in certain circumstances. Self-leveling compound is typically made with a blend of cement, polymers, and other additives that help it flow smoothly and evenly across the surface of a concrete floor. This can be an excellent option for smoothing out minor irregularities in the concrete such as small divots or bumps.
However, it’s important to note that self-leveling compound is not a universal solution for all concrete leveling issues. In fact, it can make the problem worse in some cases. For example, if the concrete has major cracks or significant surface damage, applying a self-leveling compound may not be enough to remedy the situation. Instead, the underlying structural issues must be addressed before any leveling materials are used.
Overall, while self-leveling compounds can be a great way to level a concrete floor in some situations, it’s essential to assess the specific needs of the concrete and the project before deciding on a solution. This may require the assistance of a professional, who can provide you with expert guidance and recommendations based on their experience working with similar surfaces.
What About DIY Concrete Leveling?
DIY concrete leveling may seem like a cost-effective and convenient solution, but it can also result in disaster. There are several reasons why doing it yourself is not a good idea, and it’s essential to understand the potential consequences before making any decisions.
First, leveling a concrete surface requires specific skills and tools that most homeowners don’t have. Without the proper equipment and expertise, it’s easy to make mistakes and wind up with a crooked or uneven surface. This could lead to safety hazards like tripping and falling, and compromise your property’s structural integrity.
Furthermore, attempting to level a concrete floor yourself could lead to expensive and time-consuming repairs in the future. Additionally, if you plan on selling or renting your property in the future, you may have difficulty finding interested buyers or tenants if the concrete is not leveled correctly.
How Much Does Concrete Floor Leveling Cost?
The cost of concrete floor leveling varies depending on factors such as the space’s size, the problem’s severity, and the property’s location.
On average, the cost of concrete floor leveling can range from $2 to $12 per square foot. However, the price range may go higher or lower depending on the factors affecting the job.
The cost of concrete floor leveling is also influenced by the type of equipment used and level of expertise required to complete the job. The use of advanced leveling technologies and the involvement of highly skilled professionals can result in a higher overall cost, but they also guarantee a more precise and efficient leveling job. Additional factors to consider are materials used, clean-up, and preparation.
If you’re concerned about an unlevel concrete floor in your home, contact us today to schedule an evaluation and receive a free repair estimate. We serve areas in four states: Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri.
