pouring concrete

What is Polyurethane Foam and Why Do We Use It?

Polyurethane foam has become an increasingly popular choice for concrete crack repair in recent years. This is due, in part, to the many benefits that it offers.

 

So, what is polyurethane foam? Polyurethane foam is a type of insulation made from two liquids that are mixed together and then foamed up using air or nitrogen. It is available in both open cell and closed cell varieties, with the latter being more common.

 

Open cell foam is less dense and more permeable than closed cell foam. This makes it a better choice for applications where moisture needs to be allowed to escape, such as roofing and insulation. Closed cell foam, on the other hand, is more dense and water-resistant. It is thus a better choice for structural applications, such as concrete crack repair.

 

Polyurethane foam comes in several different strengths and densities. The lowest density types are typically used for insulation purposes, while higher density types are more suitable for the structural repair of things like cracks. Concrete crack repair with polyurethane foam typically involves filling the crack with an expanding spray product that becomes up to ten times stronger than the surrounding concrete within minutes after application.

 

What are Some of the Benefits?

A few of the major benefits of using polyurethane foam concrete crack repair needs include:

 

(1) It is very easy to apply;

 

(2) Provides long-lasting results;

 

(3) Requires no curing time;

 

(4) can be used to prevent water damage, which is particularly beneficial for basements and crawl spaces where concrete cracks are often common;

 

(5) after the foam cures it becomes inert, meaning that it does not support mold growth.

 

As you can see, polyurethane foam is an extremely versatile product with many applications as a concrete crack repair material. If you live in need of such services please contact us at your earliest convenience so we may provide you with further information about our products and services as well as how they might benefit you.

 

old concrete building

Tips to Maintain Your Concrete

There is nothing eternal, each building structure deforms over time as a result of mechanical influences and the influence of the natural environment. Concrete is a durable building material that is made on the basis of cement and is also susceptible to destruction. Therefore, many private developers are interested in what to do if concrete crumbles and how to maintain concrete.

 

The Main Causes of Destruction

The main factors of deformation of concrete structures:

 

  1.   Moisture that gets into the voids of the building material. Every person from school physics lessons knows that water can take 3 states: steam, liquid, ice. After freezing, water crystallizes and expands. Accordingly, water trapped in the voids of the structure expands in winter and destroys it.

 

  1.   Sharp changes in ambient temperatures.

 

  1.   If in the process of pouring a poor-quality building mixture was used, the composition of which did not comply with building codes.

 

  1.   For the mobility of the cement slurry in the process of its manufacture, additional water was added, and no special additives were used.

 

  1.   Structures at the stage of hardening and curing of the solution are not provided with proper care. In order for the solution to acquire the required level of strength, it must set gradually over several days. To do this, in hot weather, the flooded foundation is sprayed with water and covered with a film, in winter it is heated with special devices (mats, electric cables).

 

How to Maintain Concrete and Prevent it From Crumbling  

Recommendations of concrete repair contractor Rockwall Tx for maintaining concrete and for the prevention of crumbling of concrete structures:

 

  1.   When preparing the building mixture on your own, it is necessary to additionally use water-repellent additives. To ensure the homogeneity of the mixture, increase the strength, it is necessary to add plasticizers.

 

  1.   It is recommended to treat the already poured foundation with a hydrophobic compound.

 

  1.   If the concrete structure is constantly exposed to moisture, it must be impregnated with a water-repellent agent under high pressure. To do this, you need to use special equipment.

 

The concrete surface must be maintained. It is not recommended to put into operation concrete structures earlier than the set time. The setting period of the cement slurry is 28 days. During this time, concrete is gaining strength characteristics.

 

hand tool

Concrete Foam Repair Aftercare

Concrete foam repair is not a simple job both industrial and private construction. However, many inexperienced workers who specialize in the repair or construction of buildings neglect the maintenance of the concrete surface, believing that pouring is the final stage. Meanwhile, the provision of conditions for the correct hardening of the solution allows you to guarantee the maximum strength and durability of the structure being erected.

 

Basic Rules After Concrete Foam Repair 

It is believed that concrete acquires the required strength precisely at the stage of hardening (maturation). For this reason, you should treat the surface with the utmost scrupulousness, ensuring:

  •   the minimum shrinkage rate of the solution poured into the formwork;
  •   protection of the structure from temperature drops;
  •   sufficient moistening of the surface before hardening to avoid cracking;
  •   protection against exposure to chemicals or mechanical stress.

 

Foam Repair – Formwork

It is categorically not recommended to dismantle the formwork structure until the structure has gained 70% of its strength. In order for the process to proceed at the proper level, immediately after pouring, it is necessary to inspect the formwork for leaks or geometry violations. It is possible to eliminate the shortcomings in the first two hours after laying the 

mortar: the mixture should not give in to shaking at the time of setting.

 

Microclimate

Another important aspect is the creation of optimal microclimatic conditions. After pouring the solution into the formwork, the surface should be covered with a film, preventing it from drying out in hot weather and freezing in winter. Recommended humidity for solidification is 90%. Providing such indicators guarantees that the concrete has the required strength and stability indicators.

 

Hydration

In no case should you speed up the concrete hardening process using a hairdryer or similar equipment. Such a solution will only harm the structure, because, without gaining the required strength, the solution can exfoliate or crumble. Among other things, the resistance of the structure to chemical, atmospheric, mechanical influences decreases, and the risk of shrinkage cracks formation increases.

To avoid such consequences, it is necessary to cover the surface with a film for at least 8 hours. After removing the polyethylene, the screed must be moistened by spraying with water. Such measures must be taken if the air temperature is above +5 degrees.

If the ambient temperature is below +5 degrees, it is not required to take measures to moisturize the structure. On the contrary, the surface must be additionally insulated by covering it with rags, sawdust, etc.

 

level for construction

What to Expect When Having Concrete Leveled

Your home has never looked better than it does now, but if you’re looking for ways to improve its aesthetics even more, then adding concrete leveling to your outdoor spaces may be the way to go. This simple improvement will give your yard a whole new look and make it easier for you to enjoy all of the amenities that come with living in this part of town. 

 

Concrete leveling is not limited to repairing cracked surfaces anymore; instead, you’ll notice more homeowners opting for this service because it is fast and efficient. Unlike other methods such as grinding, no particles are flying around at high speeds during the process, making it safe for use around children and pets which makes one wonder why they ever opted out in the first place! So what should you expect when having concrete leveled? If you want to know what improvements you can expect when having your concrete leveled, here are six things worth noting:

 

1) The Home’s Curb Appeal Will Be Enhanced

The first thing people notice about your home is the overall curb appeal. A good-looking front lawn tells visitors that you take pride in how it looks. What could be nicer than taking out the grass and replacing the concrete flooring with something that looks like a polished dance floor? If you want to make your outdoor spaces more interesting, then consider concrete leveling. It will give your home an amazing appearance and make it look more modern than it has before.

 

2) You Can Enjoy High-Quality Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living is all about making memories with family and friends. This is why concrete leveling is getting so much attention these days. It can help turn concrete patios into beautiful outdoor rooms where people can enjoy just sitting around talking or singing songs near the fire pit after dinner. You’ll love being outside now that you have flat concrete instead of bumpy concrete.

 

3) No More Bumps in the Walkway

Who loves tripping over concrete bumps? Nobody! If you have concrete that is “raised” in certain spots, then concrete leveling will fix this problem. The concrete guys can literally shave off the high areas so that everybody who steps onto your property walks across even concrete all day long.

 

4) It’s Not Expensive to Add Concrete Leveling

Concrete leveling may be a bit more expensive than just pouring concrete into place, but it’s well worth the money. You can enjoy all of these great benefits without having to spend thousands and thousands of dollars on improving your outdoor spaces. Prices vary depending on the size and scope of the project, but you can expect to pay $1 per square foot or less for this service, which is far cheaper than concrete installation.

 

5) Concrete Leveling Will Last a Long Time

Concrete leveling is not like concrete pouring. This concrete treatment lasts four times longer, which means that you won’t need to worry about it for at least 15 years or so. If you care about the overall appearance of your property, then this service will pay off dividends over time as it keeps on looking great year after year without any deterioration.

 

6) It’s Easy to Install and Maintain

You don’t have to be a professional concrete contractor in order to install concrete leveling or attend to any problems associated with this service. You just need some basic do-it-yourself knowledge and you can handle it yourself, even if you’re working on concrete that is hundreds of square feet. If concrete leveling ever starts to wear down – for example, if concrete raising becomes a problem – then you can always pour concrete into place and replace it with something brand new.

 

Now that you know what concrete leveling has to offer, it’s probably a good idea for you to invest in our services. Contact concrete experts today! You can enjoy concrete leveling for at least 15 years, which gives you plenty of time to make concrete leveling a success in your home.

 

parking lot aerial view

Why You Need To Fix Your Parking Lot?

The cost to fix your parking lot is not the only thing you should consider when deciding whether or not to fix it. The safety of your employees and customers is also an important factor. As well as how quickly you can get the job done, depending on what condition your parking lot is in. Fixing a parking lot should be at the top of every business owner’s list because its benefits outweigh any drawbacks by far. A poorly maintained parking lot has consequences for all aspects of a company’s operations, so fixing it can save money in other areas while keeping everyone safe and happy. The following are reasons why is it Important to Fix Your Parking Lot:

 

  1. Provide safe and easy access to your business through the parking lot

A smooth, well-maintained parking lot provides your customers with a safe, convenient place to park while they are visiting your business. If the lot is potholed or cluttered with equipment, it will deter customers from visiting in the first place and cause accidents if they do.

 

  1. Ensure a first impression that reflects well on your business

In addition to being a safe place to park, your parking lot should be attractive and carefully designed for easy entry and exit from the space. When you build or renovate your parking lot, design it in a way that reflects positively on your business and what it has to offer.

 

  1. Avoid liability issues, fines, and damage to vehicles

Potholes, broken pavement, and other hazards in your parking lot can cause major problems if they lead to accidents or injuries, so it’s important to maintain the area carefully. If you fail to properly maintain the area around your business or do not provide sufficient warning of dangerous conditions, you could face fines and lawsuits.

 

  1. Ensure that your facility is ADA compliant

If you have an older parking lot that does not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it must be made to do so as soon as possible, or you can face expensive lawsuits down the line. According to the law, anyone who owns a place of public accommodation must ensure that disabled individuals are able to access goods and services at least as easily as other customers. Parking lots should meet specific requirements for the width of accessible parking spaces, slopes, and more.

 

  1. Make your business run efficiently

A well-maintained parking lot will ease traffic flow in and out of your business, making it easier for staff members to park when they arrive and for customers to exit when they leave. If the lot is constantly jammed with cars, employees will not be able to find spaces in which to park. Parking lots that are designed well also allow your business to run more smoothly by encouraging traffic flow into, around, and out of your business.

 

  1. Keep pace with modern designs for parking lots

Years ago, businesses often favored asphalt or even dirt surfaces rather than concrete or brick because the latter two materials were considered too expensive. Now, however, many businesses choose to build new parking lots using high-quality pavement materials, including concrete pavers, brick pavers, and interlocking pavers because these take little maintenance while adding a beautiful touch of color or pattern to any commercial property.

 

  1. Easily accommodate deliveries in the parking lot

If you receive regular shipments, the best way to ensure that your parking lot can handle these vehicles is to choose materials that facilitate easy entry and exit. For example, if you plan to use a curb cut as part of your delivery process, it’s important to strengthen the surrounding pavement so that heavy trucks will not cause damage.

 

  1. Protect the value of your business

One reason for making sure that your facility is ADA compliant has nothing to do with customers: It also protects the investment and value of your business and property. According to federal law, all commercial facilities must be accessible by disabled individuals unless businesses provide “the same degree” of access for those who need special accommodations as they do for everyone else. If it is not possible to provide equal access, it must be offered at a different price or otherwise made available.

 

  1. Keep your commercial property in good shape

If your commercial parking lot looks poorly maintained and cluttered, customers may assume that the same is true of the inside of your business as well–and they will find someplace else to go. In addition, if you have been cited for failure to maintain ADA-compliant facilities on your property, federal law requires that these citations be posted on websites such as Fines.gov. In other words, customers who have bad experiences with your business by being unable to reach or buy from you will know it.

 

At the end of the day, a parking lot is an expensive investment. Make sure to take care of it so that you can get as much out of your space as possible and avoid costly parking lot repairs in the future. 

 

uneven driveway

Polyurethane vs. Mudjacking

POLYURETHANE CONCRETE RAISING TECHNIQUE

Our concrete repair plan includes the controlled lift of individual slabs of concrete to realign and level the slabs. (Concrete Leveling) We achieve a precise result by applying expansive polymer foam just beneath the surface of the slab. This process eliminates the failing condition as well as seals and stabilizes all defective joints and sources of water penetration from further erosion. The variety of soils and substrates across the Front Range are often the root of the problem. Liftech’s concrete repair system treats the soils and addresses the water and erosion issues. The average life cycle of concrete is extended at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

Until recently, mudjacking has been the method more commonly used for lifting fallen concrete and is still a widely acceptable form of restoration. Mudjacking and polyurethane achieve similar results, however, the process by which those results are achieved and the extended performance of the two products are completely different.

Polyurethane Benefits

  • Long-Lasting | Polyurethane cures as a solid, impermeable structure that adheres to the concrete and is not susceptible to fracture or failure.
  • Soil Stabilization | Polyurethane is injected as a liquid to raise concrete and reacts within the loosely, non-compacted soils to solidify and stabilize the soils.
  • Less Invasive | Liftech uses controlled injections in penny-sized holes to raise your concrete quickly and effectively
  • Lightweight | Polyurethane weighs about two pounds per cubic ft. which is ideal for concrete leveling
  • Fast Acting | Polyurethane cures within minutes and your concrete is ready to use again once we leave the job site.
  • Defend Against Natural Erosion | Our environmentally friendly solution creates an eco-barrier to moisture, harmful chemicals, insects, rodents, and soil erosion.

WHAT IS MUDJACKING?

| Answer | Mudjacking uses a mixture of sand and water infused with a small amount of Portland cement, which helps the material solidify.  The sand and water mixture is pumped through 1 – 5\8″ holes in the concrete using hydraulic pressure to lift the sunken concrete.  This concrete mixture is considered a structural fill and is very heavy, weighing an average of 100 – 110 pounds per cubic foot of material.

Benefits of Polyurethane Concrete Raising Vs Mudjacking

| Answer | Polyurethane concrete raising consists of an environmentally safe liquid polymer foam that is injected through penny-size holes in the concrete and into the loose, unstable soil below.  Through an eco-friendly chemical reaction, the high-density foam expands to stabilize the loose soils and lift the fallen concrete.  After approximately 15 minutes, the polyurethane material is fully cured and ready to return to service.  the polyurethane only weighs about 2 pounds per cubic foot of material.  Polyurethane foam is an inert, non-toxic, environmentally safe material.  It is impervious to moisture or decay, ensuring that over time, it will not only be environmentally friendly, but your concrete repair will last a lifetime.  Liftech’s polyurethane system utilizes a much smaller, 5/8 inch hole (about the size of a penny).  Following the repair, those holes are filled with chemical grouting that matches the surrounding concrete.

There are other ways to repair concrete, you can learn about them on our services page.

 

polyurethanefoaminjection_2

weight

Concrete Repair

Don’t Replace Your Concrete… Repair it!

Concrete is one of the best and most preferred building materials which can be used in concrete sidewalks, concrete driveways, stamped concrete, concrete repairs, and concrete flooring demands. One of the reasons why concrete stands out from other building materials is that it is an affordable construction material. Second, it is a durable material that can last for many decades withstanding elements such as wind, water, fire, and vibrations. Third, concrete is a versatile material that can be used from a simple concrete sidewalk to stamped and decorative concrete. Are you in need of commercial concrete repair work for your patio, sidewalk, or driveway? Here are a variety of concrete services that you can consider for your residential and commercial concrete works.

Commercial Concrete Leveling

Commercial concrete leveling is preferred for leveling and stabilizing uneven concrete slabs such as driveways, sidewalks, warehouse floors, and roadways. In addition, commercial concrete leveling can be used in applications such as erosion control and void filling, railroad and airport runway repairs, and leveling uneven bridge approaches and roads. Concrete leveling systems are usually designed to function under severe conditions. The benefit of polyurethane foam system which is used in commercial concrete leveling is that it is lightweight weighing only 4 to 6 pounds after being laid. It is also waterproof meaning that it cannot wash out. If you are looking for an alternative to concrete replacement, re-leveling, and mudjacking then look no further than commercial concrete leveling.

Concrete Raising

Concrete raising refers to the method of raising concrete so that it matches an existing grade, the benefit of which is that it eliminates sunken concrete areas, drainage problems, and trip hazards. There are two methods that are involved in concrete raising: mudjacking and polyurethane foam concrete raising. Polyurethane concrete raising involves injecting foam material under the slab. When small holes are drilled in the sunken concrete and materials pumped underneath the slab, the foam fills the void and raises the slab to the required level. After the void is filled, it is raised then leveled making it more stable than it ever was.

Cement/ Concrete Repair

Concrete repair or cement repair refers to the process of fixing a concrete surface that has been damaged as a result of environmental exposure. Cement repair is ideal for physical impacts, cracks, and surface scaling. During cement repair, the concrete surface will be cleaned to remove grease, dirt, oil, granules, or concrete flakes. Scrub and clean the area to be repaired using a broom and brush. Next use water to flush the area that is supposed to be repaired. After that, use cement repair solutions like vinyl patching compound and mix with water. Finally, trowel the mix into broken areas and cracks, and level the area to fix it.

Commercial Parking Lot Repair

Commercial parking lot repair refers to anything from damage, to the parking lot repair, to cracks and fixing the drainage. Parking lot repair entails sealing cracks that are caused by poor parking lot construction, sun, and water damage. It also entails resealing and resurfacing which extends the lifespan of the concrete.

Despite popular belief, concrete can last and look good for a very long time and can be much more cost-efficient to repair it, rather than replacing it.  Let us help you with your next commercial concrete project.

 

Don’t Replace Your Concrete… Repair it!
Driveway Repair before and after

Driveway Repair & Leveling

Driveway repair projects are tricky to handle.  The concrete slabs themselves, are extremely heavy and are not easily leveled, lifted, or repaired.  Driveway leveling normally requires professional help because of the unforeseeable problems that arise.

To illustrate these types of problems, here’s an example of a Driveway repair project we helped within Carrolton, Texas.

  • Our professional technicians arrived and see the driveway was split into sever-able slabs and each of the slabs had several cracks due to harsh weather and natural vehicle wear over the years.
  • Our technicians then adapted and changed the strategy on the spot to ensure the least amount of drilling to still ensure the concrete would be stabilized and leveled.
  • They began lifting the driveway slabs starting with the beginning of the driveway and slowly moved towards the end.  Each slab was leveled with not only the other slabs but the sidewalk as well.  Each slab is equally leveled with the next.
  • After a few hours, the driveway repair project was completed with the lifting completed, leveling done and concrete sealed.

Concrete leveling projects are not easy, but they are a much better option than removing the concrete completely and replacing everything.  That project is so expensive and wastes so much concrete.  Our concrete repair and driveway leveling approach is eco-friendly and saves hundreds of concrete slabs from going to the dump.

Next time you have a sunken driveway that needs to be fixed or an uneven sidewalk or patio, let professionals come in and help keep the project expenses low and ensure that the quality is professional.

There are two methods that are involved in concrete raising: mudjacking and polyurethane foam concrete raising. Polyurethane concrete raising involves injecting foam material under the slab. When small holes are drilled in the sunken concrete and materials pumped underneath the slab, the foam fills the void and raises the slab to the required level. After the void is filled, it is raised then leveled making it more stable than it ever was.

Sidewalk Leveling

Sidewalk Leveling | Richardson, TX

  • As soon as the concrete crew arrived at the job they began to cut out the old seal using the saw.

  • They then drilled holes in the areas necessary for the lift while pumping they began sanding where the sikaseal would be placed as a base for it.

  • Once the concrete leveling and lifting were completed, it was sealed.

Over time, sidewalks sink, pull away from parking lots, and break.  The above project illustrates all of these concrete repairs.  Each job requires a survey of the damage and an assessment of the work that needs to be done for lasting results.  Our team then sets to work by getting the job done as quickly and efficiently as possible.  We are always happy when a job is done well and our clients are happy!

Take a look at the final outcome!

Concrete services

DIY vs Professional Help

There are many different ‘do-it-yourself’ kits for almost all projects around the house that can also be done by professional services… commercial concrete repair is no exception. However, it is commonly known that DIY projects often produce poorer results and sometimes bigger problems than the initial project.   Great results often come from professional work and offer peace of mind that the project is done and good to go. For concrete leveling and repair or any work with cement, there is definitely a need for knowledge, because those projects can turn problematic very quickly if a professional isn’t helping.

Truthfully, most of the concrete repair work i.e. uneven sidewalks, sunken driveway, concrete raising, etc need a professional, and below are some reasons why you need to hire a professional for your broken and uneven concrete.

Professional concrete contractors save you time.

Learning curves can be steep, really steep.  Concrete projects can take time and are unforgiving if too many mistakes are made.  More often than not, projects require tools, supplies, and other necessities that are only known if you’ve done the project before.  Concrete repair jobs can often lead to complete replacements when the finished job isn’t satisfactory. The time wasted trying to save money immediately is voided because a replacement has to be made.  Which will end up wasting more time and money.

The repair will be more durable

Another reason why you should consider hiring a professional concrete contractor to repair your broken and uneven concrete is the factor of durability.  The job will be done and it will be done correctly. No worry if the amateur attempt will hold or survive the harsh weather conditions it could encounter.

Saves you money.

If you decide to take on the project yourself, you will undoubtedly need to buy multiple tools because there aren’t many places that offer tools to be rented.  Costs can quickly become out-of-hand when the wrong tools are purchased of the job becomes harder than you think. When you hire a professional contractor they will come with their own tools and pieces of machinery; sometimes your work is done at a cheaper and more affordable cost.

Professional concrete contractors have more experience.

The saying goes, “you can’t put a price on experience”… in the concrete industry, you can.  Hiring a professional concrete contractor to repair your broken and uneven concrete is the best solution, this is because the contractor is quite experienced and learned their trade from other professionals.

Reliability

Whenever you perform concrete leveling, you are looking for a permanent solution that will leave your home or project looking better than new.   Relying on oneself is always risky because of the unforeseen obstacles that come up. Pay for the reliability and pay for the peace of mind that the concrete repair will hold up and be stable.

Efficiency

We live in a world where time is more and more valuable, we don’t like waiting, and we don’t like it when our plans fall through.  A professional contractor will be efficient in their repair of the concrete, correctly keep to an arranged time. Efficiency also leads to less inconvenience.  Often these projects can cause you to park in inconvenient places are not be able to walk where you want to. Concrete is often taken for granted and when it’s not available, we are not too happy.  It’s important to have an efficient plan so your daily routine can go back to normal.

With the many above-mentioned advantages of hiring a professional concrete contractor, there is no good reason why you should go ahead and try to repair your broken and uneven concrete by yourself.