Leveling a concrete foundation typically involves injecting a specialized material beneath the slab to lift and stabilize it.
Common Method: Polyurethane Foam Injection
One common method used by professionals is polyurethane foam injection. Here's how it works:
- Drilling Holes: A builder will drill small holes strategically into the concrete slab.
- Injecting Polyurethane: These holes are then injected with a polyurethane foam. A common professional choice is PolyLevel, a two-part foam that expands quickly after injection.
- Lifting and Leveling: As the polyurethane foam expands, it fills the voids beneath the slab, creating pressure that lifts the concrete back to a level position. This process also fills cracks, providing additional stability.
Step-by-Step Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Assessment | Identify areas that need leveling. |
| 2. Drilling | Drill small holes into the concrete slab. |
| 3. Injection | Inject the polyurethane foam, like PolyLevel, into the drilled holes. |
| 4. Expansion & Lifting | The foam expands, filling voids and lifting the slab to the desired level. |
| 5. Monitoring | Carefully monitor the lifting process to ensure even and proper leveling. |
| 6. Repair | Patch up the drilled holes once leveling is complete. |
Advantages of Polyurethane Foam
- Rapid Expansion: Polyurethane foams like PolyLevel expand almost immediately upon injection.
- Precise Leveling: Allows for controlled and accurate lifting of the concrete.
- Fills Voids and Cracks: Provides additional support and stability by filling empty spaces and cracks.
This method effectively addresses issues like sinking or uneven concrete foundations, providing a stable and level base for structures.
