Slabjacking is a method of concrete repair that lifts and levels uneven or sunken concrete slabs. It is also known as “concrete leveling” and “foam jacking.” The process involves drilling small holes into the sunken concrete and injecting high-density foam under the slab. The foam expands to fill the void and raises the slab back to level. Typical applications are sidewalks, driveways, patios, garage floors, pool decks, warehouse slabs or any sunken or uneven concrete surface indoors or outdoors.
Why Slabjacking Is Smarter and Easier Than Traditional Concrete Repair Methods
Of course, there are other options, such as mudjacking and slab replacement, but slabjacking has a clear advantage.
Less Invasive and Faster
- Minimal disruption: Only small holes (typically ⅝” in diameter) are needed, compared to the large holes used in mudjacking.
- Quick cure time: Polyurethane foam hardens within minutes, allowing the area to be used the same day as opposed to traditional concrete replacement or mudjacking, which can take days to cure.
The Right Gun and Proportioner Give you Precise Control
- The polyurethane foam expands predictably, providing precise lifting control and reducing the risk of over-lifting or damaging the slab. The PX-7 mechanical purge gun and a PMC low-pressure proportion are best suited for the job.
- Conversely, traditional mudjacking, which uses a slurry of cement, soil, and water, can be less predictable due to the material’s weight and flow.
Lightweight and Long-Lasting
- Lightweight and Long-Lasting
- Polyurethane foam is lightweight yet strong, which means it doesn’t add significant pressure to the underlying soil.
- Mudjacking uses a much heavier material that can contribute to further settling over time.
- Foam is also water-resistant, so it won’t erode or break down like mudjacking slurry can.
Cost-Effective Alternative to Replacement
- Slabjacking typically costs less than full concrete replacement while achieving similar results.
- There’s no need for demolition, removal, or new concrete pouring, which keeps labor and material costs lower.
Environmentally Friendly
- The foam closed-cell polyurethane foam used in slabjacking is inert and non-contaminating to soil or water, and because you’re reusing the existing slab, there’s less waste sent to landfills.
Recommended Gun for Slabjacking
The PMC PX-7 gun is the ideal choice for slab jacking applications. Its design features ensure efficient material mixing and reduce cleaning needs. Overall, it is a durable gun with long-lasting value.
Key Features of the PX-7 for Slabjacking:
- Mechanical Purge: The PX-7 utilizes a mechanical purge system with a valving rod that eliminates the need for solvent flushing or air purging of the mixed material at the end of each use. This feature makes it more efficient and less messy compared to some other guns.
- The PX-7 Pour Gun is designed for slab jacking and is equipped with a pour module suitable for this application.
- Durable and Low Maintenance: Features like a stainless-steel hardened coupling block, single piece valving rod, and rebuildable manual valves contribute to the gun’s durability and ease of maintenance. Some users report switching from other guns to the PX-7 due to its low maintenance requirements.
- In addition to slab jacking, the PX-7 is also used for roofing, residential foam, and coating applications.
Recommended Proportioner for Slabjacking
PMC spray foam machines operate at the precise temperature and pressure conditions required for the high-density closed-cell polyurethane foam used in this process. They provide the precision, control, and material handling necessary for lifting concrete slabs safely and effectively.
Key Features of PMC Low-Pressure Proportioners for Slabjacking
- Precise Material Flow for Controlled Lifting: PH-Series polyurethane spray foam proportioners deliver foam at a consistent, measured rate which is critical when lifting concrete. You want the slab to rise slowly and evenly to prevent cracking or over-lifting.
- This controlled application allows for fine adjustments during the lift process.
- Machines such as the PH-2, PH-25 or PK-25 offer a lower working pressure, minimizing stress on the slab and surrounding area.
It is important to know that spray foam and coatings proportioners and guns are meant for more than insulation and polyurea liners. For more information about machines best suited for slabjacking, download the following brochures: