Deep injection foundation repair is a technique used to stabilize and reinforce a settling or damaged foundation. This method involves injecting a specialized material, typically polyurethane foam or grout, deep into the soil beneath the foundation to restore its level and strength. The injected material expands, filling voids and cracks, which helps lift and stabilize the foundation, providing long-term support.
Deep injection is a method used in foundation repair to stabilize, lift, and support a sinking or shifting foundation by injecting specialized materials deep into the soil beneath it. This technique is particularly beneficial when conventional repair methods are not effective due to deep soil issues or extensive foundation damage.
How Deep Injection Works
In deep injection foundation repair, the process involves drilling small, strategically placed holes through the foundation slab or surrounding soil. A material, typically polyurethane foam, grout, or similar substances, is then injected into these holes under high pressure. The material fills the voids and cracks in the soil beneath the foundation, expanding as it cures, thus providing support and lifting the structure.
Types of Materials Used
- Polyurethane Foam: A popular choice due to its quick-setting nature. When injected, it expands and solidifies, helping to lift the foundation while filling any voids. It’s especially useful for lighter applications where only minimal lifting is required.
- Grout (Cementitious or Epoxy-based): For heavier foundations, grout is often used. It’s injected in liquid form, filling gaps, compacting the soil, and hardening to provide solid support.
- Polymer Resins: Similar to foam but can offer greater durability for more significant repairs.
Here’s how the process typically works:
- Site Inspection: A foundation expert assesses the structure to determine the cause of the damage and whether deep injection repair is a suitable option.
- Injection Process: Small holes are drilled into the foundation or the surrounding soil. A polyurethane foam or grout mixture is then injected under high pressure into the ground. This material expands as it is injected, filling voids and lifting the foundation.
- Foundation Stabilization: As the material hardens, it stabilizes the foundation, preventing further shifting and damage. This technique is particularly effective in areas where soil erosion, moisture changes, or settlement issues have caused the foundation to sink or become uneven.
- Final Inspection: After the material cures, the technician will inspect the results to ensure the foundation is properly leveled and stable.
Benefits of Deep Injection Foundation Repair:
- Non-invasive: The process requires minimal disruption to your property and can often be completed quickly without the need for large equipment.
- Cost-effective: Compared to traditional foundation repair methods, deep injection can be a more affordable option for stabilizing foundations.
- Long-lasting: When done properly, deep injection can provide a permanent solution to foundation issues caused by soil movement or settling.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since the injections are usually done through small holes, there’s little to no mess, and the landscape is minimally disturbed.
When to Consider Deep Injection
Deep injection is ideal for addressing issues like:
Crawl Spaces or Basements: Areas that have been impacted by soil shifting or water damage.Overall, deep injection foundation repair is an efficient, cost-effective, and minimally invasive way to address foundation issues caused by soil instability or shifting.
Settling Foundations: Caused by shifting soil, erosion, or poor initial construction.
Uneven Floors: Floors or walls that slope or are out of alignment due to foundation settlement.