If you’re interested in pursuing a career in contracting, specifically in concrete lifting, you’ll need to know the ins and outs of all the equipment needed. There are a couple of different processes used to complete concrete lifting projects, which consist of mudjacking and foamjacking. You’ll first need to decide which method to pursue and then investigate the corresponding equipment. Keep reading to get a better understanding of these methods and what to look for in concrete slab lifting equipment.
The Different Concrete Lifting Techniques
Two of the main concrete lifting techniques are known as mudjacking and foamjacking. Both concrete lifting processes follow similar steps, but each technique uses different materials for the pumping process. These processes start by drilling holes through the concrete surface, then pumping in a mixture to raise the uneven piece of concrete. Mudjacking uses a mixture of sand-based grout known as a slurry. Foamjacking features a polyurethane foam mixture to support the concrete. Both techniques can help save cracked or uneven concrete surfaces, though there are some benefits of one over the other.
Foam Concrete Lifting Benefits
Many contractors use foamjacking over mudjacking for the variety of benefits that the former provides. To start, the holes that you’ll need to drill for foamjacking are significantly smaller than those needed for mudjacking. The polyurethane foam mixture is also cleaner and more sustainable than the slurry used in mudjacking. This is because concrete lifting foam uses about 40% recycled materials. Simply choosing this concrete lifting foam can help reduce your carbon footprint. Plus, the foamjacking process can even be faster and more efficient than mudjacking in some cases. Foam is quick to apply and expand, which expedites the concrete lifting process.
What To Look for in Concrete Slab Lifting Equipment
Now that you know which concrete lifting method to use for your project, you’ll need to start looking for the right lifting equipment. You can find a variety of different equipment parts and rigs for storing and transporting your lifting equipment, so you need to know what to look for. Here are some of the qualities to look for in polyurethane foamjacking equipment for your rig.
Quality of Equipment
The quality of the equipment is one of the first things you should inspect. Depending on whether you are shopping for new or used concrete lifting equipment, the tools will have different wear and tear and overall condition. When shopping for used equipment, always make sure that wear and tear is kept to a minimum, or you risk purchasing a product that is going to break down on you right away. In these cases, the money you save on a used product could go right back into repairs. Here at Spray Foam Systems, all our pre-owned equipment features detailed descriptions of parts and conditions.
Type of Pump
There are many different brands and models of concrete lifting pump to consider when shopping for foamjacking equipment. A hydraulic proportioner might be the best option for you if your focus is on larger concrete lifting projects. Some large-scale concrete lifting projects require powerful hydraulic pumps to level large, heavy concrete slabs. You may need a heavy-duty hydraulic pump for driveways, parking lots, and home foundation lifting projects. You can also find specialized foamjacking pumps and those that are suitable for smaller-scale projects as well. Some foamjacking pumps have all-in-one project compatibility that allows them to complete all sorts of spray foam projects, from foamjacking to insulation.
Type of Foam
Generally, the most common foam that contractors use for concrete foamjacking is polyurethane foam. Not all types of foam are created equal, especially for use in concrete lifting. For example, watch out for slow-reacting or slow-expanding foams. These can be great for filling cracks and other voids, but they aren’t fit for use in concrete raising. Fast-expanding foams like polyurethane foams are best for use in concrete lifting because they quickly fill in beneath the slab and support it to level the surface. Using polyurethane foams also means smaller drilling holes in the concrete material, which are easier to fill and patch up. This leaves a cleaner appearance when the project site is cleaned and finished.
Equipment Pieces
To make sure that you have everything you need as a concrete lifting contractor, start by compiling the individual parts to the foamjacking process. There are several parts you will need, but once you have everything, the foamjacking process will proceed quickly and smoothly. Make sure to check off your list with the following equipment:
- Proportioner
- Generator
- Air compressor
- Foam hose and nozzle
- Spray gun
Once you have all the equipment needed for spray foam application, you should also stock up on the additional tools needed for working with concrete. This includes a drilling system, dust collection system, trowels, and more. You won’t be able to proceed with the polyurethane foam injection without first having a compatible drill and concrete equipment.
Where To Find Concrete Slab Lifting Equipment
Now that you know what equipment you’ll need and all the specifics to look for, you might be wondering where to find the necessary concrete lifting equipment. Fortunately, you don’t have to search for long—you can find a variety of concrete slab lifting equipment right here at Spray Foam Systems. Whether you’re looking for equipment that is brand new or used in quality, or different brands, models, and more, browse through our shop for a wide selection of equipment. We also carry spray foam rigs to keep all your equipment organized and ready for your next project. Find everything you need to start your concrete lifting contracting business here.
We hope this answers your questions when it comes to what to look for in concrete slab lifting equipment. If you have further questions or would like to know more about concrete lifting equipment and this process, feel free to contact us at Spray Foam Systems. Our experts will help you walk through the equipment you might need and the details of each model. You can also browse our shop for specifics on all the equipment we offer and the benefits and details of each.
