Our Services

Polyurethane Crack Injection

One of our most popular methods for alleviating water intrusion is high-pressure injection of hydrophilic urethane foam grout. Small holes are drilled into concrete near the crack or other leak, a high-pressure fitting installed, and a thin, water-reactive urethane liquid injected at high pressure, following the path of the crack or penetration (conduit, wall joint, pipe penetration etc.). Upon contact with water the urethane expands, fillings cracks, joints, voids, holes, gaps in pipe penetrations etc.

The expansion creates foam "bladders" or dams that block water penetration and remain flexible - they will not re-crack and leak, a problem with older epoxy injection repairs. This is a tremendous time and money-saving system for below-grade parking structures, vaults (both walls and ceilings), sumps, mechanical rooms, elevator pits and basements. This procedure is done from the "negative side", eliminating the need for exterior excavation.

Epoxy Injection

Epoxy Injection is primarily used to repair cracks in structural concrete in the process restoring structural integrity while preventing ingress of moisture. The process involves sealing of the crack surface with an epoxy paste followed by the injection of low viscosity two part resins through ports placed strategically on the surface of the crack. More recently epoxy injection has been utilized in historic wood elements where restoration and preservation as opposed to replacement is preferred. The types of epoxy, equipment utilized and the method of repair is dependant upon the application.

The experience, knowledge and approach adopted by the applicator is also a key component in the success of the project at hand.

Chemical grouts are primarily used to seal cracks and penetrations in below grade structures where the ingress of moisture is evident and access cannot be obtained, externally, to install conventional waterproofing. Typical applications include defects in foundations, dams, waste water treatment facilities and in more recent times geo technical applications such as soil stabilization. Key factors in obtaining the desired results include selection of the correct materials and a thorough understanding of the problems that exist.

WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS

High grade waterproofing systems are critical for the protection of subterranean portions of any building or structure.

Typically the outside of the foundation wall receives an application of a hot or cold applied system. Additional features to the system may include protection board, drainage board and insulation. In areas where ground water pressure is of concern.

Occupied spaces must first be waterproofed prior to the overburden and finishes being installed. As with waterproofing system the primary weaknesses are at the transitions and terminations.

You can count on the CSI team for the expertise and experience to correctly apply below-grade waterproofing systems ranging from positive side waterproofing of exterior foundation walls to negative side waterproofing of interior foundations utilizing crystalline waterproofing materials. Other waterproofing projects include deck waterproofing, creation of garden systems with positive & negative applied membranes, and more.

CAULKING & SEALANT REPLACEMENT

Sealants are materials that are placed in joints in buildings, pavings and structures where a weather-tight seal is needed and to accommodate anticipated movement in a monolithic surface or at the interface between various building elements.

Joint backings, fillers or bond break tape are utilized as an accessory to sealants, depending upon the application, and are used to limit the depth of the sealant, prevent three sided adhesion and provide support during installation and finishing. The type of sealant selected depends upon the application, anticipated exposure, movement and aesthetic requirements. Proper preparation of joint substrates in conjunction with correct width to depth ratios are all essential to achieving long term durability.

CONCRETE REPAIR & RESTORATION

Concrete Repair is a key component of many structural stabilization, restoration and strengthening projects. Over time, the repair of concrete structures becomes a necessity as deterioration of the embedded reinforcing results in cracking and spalling of the concrete elements. If left un-abated, failure will eventually result.

The prime factors in concrete deterioration are air and moisture which result in carbonation of the concrete & chloride attack of the reinforcing. Both carbonation and the presence of chlorides destroy the natural alkalinity of the concrete resulting in corrosion and subsequent expansion of the embedded reinforcing. A less common form of concrete deterioration is seen in the form of alkali silica reaction which results in the paste around the aggregate turning to a gell - the subsequent expansion causing cracking and spalling.

The need, and sometimes urgency, to undertake most concrete restoration projects is due more to protecting the public and property from falling hazards as opposed to any type of imminent structural failure. Strict ordinances are in place from many local authorities and governing bodies to ensure that building owners undertake inspections at predetermined intervals by a professional.