slabjacking

Slabjacking is a construction technique used to lift and level settled concrete slabs. It is commonly employed to repair sunken driveways, patios, sidewalks, garage floors, and even interior floors. The process involves drilling small holes through the settled slab and injecting a material underneath to fill the void and exert upward pressure.

There are two primary materials used in slabjacking: grout and polyurethane foam. Grout, a mixture of cement, sand, and water, is a heavier and more traditional material. It is pumped under the slab, creating a solid, stable base. Polyurethane foam, on the other hand, is a lighter and faster-expanding material. It is injected as a liquid and then expands into a solid foam, filling voids and lifting the slab. Polyurethane foam offers advantages in terms of speed, minimal disruption, and its ability to penetrate smaller voids.

The slabjacking process begins with an inspection to determine the extent of the settlement and the underlying cause, which is often soil erosion or compaction. Once the method is chosen, holes are drilled at strategic locations. The chosen material is then pumped through these holes. As the material fills the void beneath the slab, it gradually lifts the concrete. Once the desired level is achieved, the holes are patched, leaving a smooth and repaired surface. Slabjacking is generally less expensive and disruptive than replacing the entire concrete slab. It is a sustainable option as it reuses the existing concrete structure.