What Is Polyurethane Foam Leveling?
Polyurethane foam leveling, also known as foam jacking or polyjacking, is the most advanced method for lifting and stabilizing sunken concrete slabs. This innovative technique uses high-density polyurethane foam injected beneath settled concrete to raise it back to its original position. Unlike traditional mudjacking or complete concrete replacement, polyurethane foam leveling offers Waco homeowners and business owners a faster, cleaner, and longer-lasting solution for concrete settlement issues.
At Waco Concrete Leveling, we've seen how this modern approach transforms problematic concrete surfaces throughout Central Texas—from residential driveways in Hewitt to commercial walkways in Woodway. The technology has become the preferred choice for concrete repair professionals because it addresses the root cause of settlement while providing superior performance in our Texas climate.
How the Polyurethane Foam Leveling Process Works
The polyjacking process is remarkably efficient and minimally invasive. Our trained technicians complete most residential projects in just a few hours, allowing you to use your concrete surfaces the same day.
Step 1: Inspection and Assessment
We begin by thoroughly examining your sunken concrete to determine the extent of settlement and identify the underlying cause. This assessment helps us create a precise lifting plan tailored to your specific situation.
Step 2: Strategic Hole Drilling
Our team drills small, penny-sized holes through the settled concrete slab at strategic locations. These injection points are carefully positioned to ensure even lifting and optimal foam distribution beneath the slab.
Step 3: Polyurethane Foam Injection
We inject specialized two-part polyurethane foam through the drilled holes using precision equipment. As the components mix, they create a chemical reaction that causes the material to expand rapidly beneath your concrete.
Step 4: Controlled Lifting and Stabilization
The expanding foam fills voids in the soil and generates controlled lifting pressure. Our experienced technicians monitor the process in real-time, ensuring your concrete rises evenly to the desired level. The foam expands to fill all gaps and compacts loose soil, creating a stable foundation that prevents future settlement.
Step 5: Hole Sealing and Cleanup
Once your concrete reaches the proper elevation, we seal the injection holes with color-matched material, making them nearly invisible. The polyurethane foam cures within minutes, allowing immediate use of the repaired surface.
Why Polyurethane Foam Leveling Is Superior to Traditional Methods
Homeowners throughout Waco and Robinson are choosing polyurethane foam leveling over older concrete repair methods for several compelling reasons.
Lightweight Yet Strong
Polyurethane foam weighs significantly less than traditional mudjacking materials like concrete slurry. This lightweight characteristic means the repair itself won't contribute to future settlement—a common problem with heavier repair materials.
Precision and Control
The polyjacking process offers exceptional control during lifting. Our technicians can raise concrete in small increments, achieving precise results that perfectly match adjacent surfaces.
Fast Curing and Minimal Disruption
While mudjacking requires extended curing times before concrete can bear weight, polyurethane foam cures in approximately 15 minutes. You can drive on your leveled driveway or walk on your repaired sidewalk almost immediately after we finish.
Water-Resistant and Environmentally Stable
Polyurethane foam is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water rather than absorbing it. This property is particularly important in Central Texas, where soil moisture fluctuations contribute to concrete settlement.
Ideal Applications in Waco
Polyurethane foam leveling works exceptionally well for driveways, sidewalks, patios, garage floors, pool decks, and commercial concrete throughout the Waco area. Our expansive clay soils and weather patterns create conditions that frequently cause concrete to settle unevenly—and foam leveling addresses these challenges better than any other repair method.
Cost-Effective Alternative to Replacement
Replacing settled concrete involves breaking out the old slab, removing debris, preparing the subgrade, pouring new concrete, and waiting days for curing. Polyurethane foam leveling typically costs a fraction of replacement while delivering comparable or superior long-term performance. Most foam leveling projects are completed in a single day, eliminating the extended loss of access that comes with concrete replacement.
