MUDJACKING vs POLY
There has been quite a bit of “buzz” about polyurethane form otherwise known as Poly lifting/jacking/leveling as a substitute for cementitious grout generally pumped with original traditional mudjacking. Before you jump on that bandwagon, we would like to share some vital information about polyurethane foam that should change your mind. Our sources for this information comes from: www.epa.gov www.osha.gov www.nist.gov
www.cdrecycling.org Polyurethane foam is a byproduct processed from crude oil. Main ingredients are polyois and diisocyanate, both of which are identified as carcinogens and listed as Toxic Substances by EPA. Other ingredients and exposure to its contaminants toluene diisocyanate, methylene chloride, hydrogen cyanide, Iscyanates are known neurotoxins or carcinogens causing cancer in animals. Polyurethane (even best foam) breaks down in 10-12 years under normal conditions.​
MUDJACKING FACTS
1. Pressurized cement grout evenly spread reduces stress off the concrete
2. Cement grout is not a petroleum based material and repels water
3. Will not shrink, in addition admixtures strengthens final grout placement
4. Cement grout can meet or exceed coverage within 1/32 at higher psi
5. Cement grout offers compressive & tensile strengths of 600-5000 psi
6. Less quarter size holes in drilled panel, holding more integrity in the slabs
7. Meets or exceeds lifting capabilities of polyurethane
8. Research indicates slab deflection breaks down poly
9. Mudjacking grout has been used for over 100 years
10. Cement grout sub-seals floors at higher compressive strengths
11. Mudjacking grout is a fraction of the cost of poly lifting
Polyurethane is a petroleum-based, toxic, sticky material that adheres to the concrete, rendering it unacceptable at the recycling centers. At some point, all concrete must be replaced. Concrete that has polyurethane attached to it will not be accepted at concrete recycling centers. It must be disposed of at a toxic waste facility. The Construction & Demolition Recycling Association states that “no concrete will be allowed for processing that contains hazardous materials or contaminates“. When concrete is removed, it will be the owners responsibility and cost to safely remove and dispose of the polyurethane foam.
Mudjacking vs Polyurethane
Proven quickest, efficient, and most cost effective controlled jacking method of repairing sunken concrete! Less hassle, less down time. Immediate use, once it is restored and realigned by traditional mudjacking.
Fully filling voids before lifting gives proper reinforcement while raising. Modern mudjacking techniques exceed poly by completely, stabilizing beneath hollowed unsafe squares, giving even coverage below and restoring the slabs with continuous support.
Professional mudjacking is the most preferred long term solution. Less holes drilled per project. Specialized trade for water erosion issues, unsettled subsoil, sinkholes, & unlevel concrete. A fraction the cost vs. poly lifting. Our warranty is unmatched the industry!
Our 100% natural crushed rock mixed with cementitious grout offers strong, solid support. Builders use rock, dirt, or sand under concrete and around the foundations for fill. Absolutely no concrete company will pour new concrete on top of poly foam injection.
Waiting for chemical reactions to occur. if mixed incorrectly can be toxic. As seen, this newest poly system may not raise the uneven concrete enough and/or over lift the panels attempting to jack or level them.
Foam expansion sets fast. Mounds of polyurethane injection leave pockets / voids. If left open, soil can erode, leading to unstable concrete that is susceptible to extra stress on the slabs structure or foundation. Water, rodents, or insects also can inhabit the space.
More pennies spent and penny sized Injection drill holes needed, in hopes of pumping filler into hollow cavities below the empty, unsupported concrete sections, plus additional hidden poly pumping charges and future costs of removal for foam fill product can incur.
Ask the contractor if any of their polyurethane is hazardous in liquid form, before sprayed. Poly foam is not accepted with concrete recycling companies and must be properly disposed of. Know the facts and safety before deciding which method you’ll choose.