Polyurethane foam is generally not recommended for structural foundation stabilization. While it is an effective tool for slab jacking—which involves lifting non-structural concrete like sidewalks, driveways, or interior slabs with less than 2 inches of settlement—it lacks the capacity to support the perimeter foundations or load-bearing walls of a settling home.
For a permanent solution, we utilize foundation underpinning via steel pier systems. The primary differences include:
- Load-Bearing Capacity: Polyurethane foam is typically limited to lighter loads (under 20 tons). In contrast, our Helical Piers provide a load-bearing capacity that can exceed 100 tons per pier.
- Depth and Stability: Foam injection is a shallow correction that may degrade over time, especially in expansive clay or high-moisture soils. Our steel piers transfer the building’s load past unstable surface soils down to competent load-bearing strata or bedrock.
- Engineering Standards: Our Helical Pier Systems and Push Piers are ICC and ISO Certified products with ICC-ES documentation, ensuring they meet the highest industry standards for permanent structural support.
Because every project has unique soil conditions and structural requirements, we recommend a site-specific geotechnical evaluation. We provide Engineering Excellence and Design Support through our network of structural engineers to ensure your repair is built to last.
Note: Consult a structural engineer or our engineering team for project-specific design and installation guidance. Installations must comply with applicable building codes and ICC-ES acceptance criteria (AC358).
Related FAQs
-
When should You Use Round Shaft Versus Square Shaft Helical Piers?
Read More »: When should You Use Round Shaft Versus Square Shaft Helical Piers?The choice between round shaft and square shaft helical piers depends on your project’s soil conditions, load requirements, and structural goals. Both designs serve as advanced earth anchoring systems, but they excel in different environments: When to use Round Shaft…
-
Which Shaft Type has Better Torsional Strength During Installation?
Read More »: Which Shaft Type has Better Torsional Strength During Installation?The answer depends on the specific application and soil conditions, as both round and square shafts offer distinct advantages in torsional strength: Round Shafts: These are noted for their superior torsional performance due to an axisymmetric geometry. This circular cross-section…
-
Should I Hire a Professional for Concrete Repair?
Read More »: Should I Hire a Professional for Concrete Repair?Hiring a professional for concrete repair in Denver is highly recommended due to the region’s complex geological and regulatory environment. Professionals possess the expertise to distinguish between minor hairline cracks and significant structural issues caused by Denver’s expansive clay soils…
-
What Questions should I Ask Concrete Contractors in Denver?
Read More »: What Questions should I Ask Concrete Contractors in Denver?When hiring concrete contractors in Denver, it is essential to ask specific questions to ensure they can handle the region’s unique geological challenges, such as expansive clay soils and freeze-thaw cycles. Based on local requirements and industry standards, you should…
-
How are Push Piling Piers Used for Foundation Repair in Texas?
Read More »: How are Push Piling Piers Used for Foundation Repair in Texas?In Texas foundation repair, push piers (also referred to as push piling or hydraulically driven sections) are utilized to stabilize sinking structures, particularly in areas with expansive clay soils like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. The process involves several technical…