The Pacific Northwest’s rainy, mild, and sometimes freezing climate presents unique challenges for concrete structures. Persistent moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and soil erosion can lead to issues like cracks, shifting, and sunken concrete. Fortunately, slabjacking offers a reliable solution to restore stability without replacing damaged concrete. Here’s how PNW weather impacts concrete—and how slabjacking can help fix these issues.
The PNW’s high rainfall keeps soil constantly moist, causing it to expand and contract. This shifting weakens soil stability, leading to erosion around concrete foundations and slabs. As soil erodes, concrete can settle unevenly, resulting in cracks and sunken areas.
Solution: Slabjacking involves injecting a stabilizing grout mixture under the sunken concrete to fill voids, lift the slab, and restore its level. This provides a long-lasting fix to sunken concrete caused by soil erosion without the need for costly replacement.
While winters in the PNW are mild, occasional freezing can cause freeze-thaw cycles that lift and settle concrete through frost heave. This cycle creates instability, cracks, and sinking in concrete slabs.
Solution: Slabjacking counters the effects of freeze-thaw cycles by stabilizing the soil beneath the slab, preventing further movement. The injected material acts as a supportive foundation, minimizing future shifts due to freezing and thawing.
Summer heat causes soil—especially clay-heavy soil common in the PNW—to dry out and shrink, which can lead to settling and uneven surfaces as soil loses volume.
Solution: Slabjacking lifts sunken slabs by filling gaps created by shrinking soil, restoring a level surface and eliminating trip hazards. By filling the voids beneath the slab, slabjacking stabilizes the area, preventing future sinking.
The wet PNW climate promotes moss and algae growth, which trap moisture, leading to surface degradation and accelerating concrete wear.
Tip: Regular cleaning and sealing can reduce the impact of moss and algae on concrete surfaces.
Slabjacking is a cost-effective and minimally invasive solution to sinking concrete that addresses the underlying soil stability issues affecting concrete in the PNW. Rather than replacing damaged slabs, slabjacking fills voids, lifts concrete, and provides a solid foundation, making it an excellent fix for common issues caused by the region’s unique weather and soil conditions.
By investing in slabjacking, property owners can extend the life of their concrete structures, even in the challenging PNW climate.
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Foundation settling is a common issue that can affect a home’s structural integrity, visual appeal, and resale value. When soil shifts beneath your home, it can cause parts of the foundation to sink unevenly, leading to cracks, uneven floors, and misaligned doors. Preventing settling is crucial for resale value, as buyers are often wary of homes with structural concerns. Fortunately, slabjacking with polyurethane (poly) is an effective solution that restores stability and prevents further settling.
Slabjacking with polyurethane is a reliable way to stabilize and lift settled foundations. This method involves injecting a lightweight polyurethane foam beneath the foundation to fill voids, lift the concrete, and restore stability. Here’s why it’s a superior choice:
Homes with stable, professionally repaired foundations attract buyers and tend to sell at higher prices. With slabjacking and polyurethane, you can ensure your foundation remains level and free from signs of settling, boosting the property’s overall appeal. Buyers gain confidence knowing the home has been well-maintained, adding value to their investment.
Slabjacking with polyurethane is a proactive investment in your home’s future resale value. By addressing settling issues early, you preserve your property’s integrity, appeal, and market potential. With a stable foundation, you’ll be able to present your home confidently to buyers, knowing it’s as solid as it looks.