Epoxy and polyurethane injections are generally considered to be long-lasting repairs, with a lifespan of 10 years or more.
How long does an epoxy injection last? Epoxy crack repair lasts anywhere from 3 years to 20 years, but the influence it has on the lifespan of buildings and structures is much longer.
Dry Substrate Recommended – Epoxy typically has reduced adhesion to wet and saturated surfaces. A dry environment is desired for best results. Actively Leaking Cracks – Epoxy cannot be used for actively leaking cracks. Epoxy resin needs to be contained in a crack until cured sufficiently to achieve full strength.
Epoxy injections are often used for minor cracks in the foundation. This method involves injecting a resin into the cracks to seal them, preventing water infiltration and further damage. Epoxy costs around $8 to $12 per square foot.
How Long Does Resin Injection Last? The lifespan of resin injection underpinning varies widely, generally ranging from 8 to 15 years, but in some cases, it can last longer under ideal conditions.
Most other reputable resin brands should last for at least 5 years—again with proper care—before needing to be refreshed. The important thing is to avoid unfamiliar brands, especially those sold by 3rd-parties on open marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, etc.
On the downside, resin injection underpinning may not be cost effective if it turns out there's a large gap under the ground, which may need a lot of resin to fill it. Subsidence experts say resin injection holds several advantages over concrete underpinning, including: Speed.
Generally, larger areas tend to have a lower cost per square foot. For example, a two-car garage covering approximately 400 square feet may incur a cost of around $4,000, while a larger project spanning 1,000 square feet could cost about $8,000.
Depending on the type of issue, foundation repairs can cost as little as $250 for minor cracks and upwards of $25,000 or more if the issue requires hydraulic piers.
Depending on the specific requirements of the job, crack repair by epoxy injection can restore structural integrity and reduce moisture penetration through concrete cracks 0.002 in. (0.05 mm) in width and greater.
Epoxy is a much stronger and more durable material than polyurethane but is not flexible and does not expand with movement in the structure as does polyurethane. Epoxy forms a hard, rigid bond with the concrete, whereas polyurethane is a flexible material.
Cover the concrete crack with an epoxy paste that may be applied with a putty knife down the length of the crack and will dry in about 30 minutes.
The longevity of an epoxy floor system will vary based on thickness, use and maintenance. Typically, epoxy floors last between 10 and 20 years; much longer than a painted concrete floor, which will chip and wear quickly in high-traffic areas.
Acceptable crack widths range from 0.004 in. (0.1 mm) to 0.016 in. (0.41 mm), with smaller widths for concrete in wet or aggressive environments and larger crack widths for drier exposures.
How does homeowners insurance cover foundation damage? Dwelling coverage, or Coverage A on your homeowners insurance policy, will likely cover foundation damage caused by covered perils. If the foundation damage is due to negligence, your insurance won't cover the repair cost.
Cost Depends on Size and Length of Crack
The national average cost for crack injection is $4,500, while most projects range from $2,300 to $6,700. Minor cracks may only cost a few hundred dollars, but the larger the crack, the more expensive the repair.
Multiple failed repair attempts: If a home has a history of foundation issues and nothing's been a permanent fix, think about walking away. Severe structural compromise: If foundation issues have snowballed into other issues, the repairs may be too expensive and complex to handle.
Estimate Amount of Epoxy Needed Per Square Foot
(or 6.4 ounces per sq. ft.) Divide your square footage by 20 to get the gallons required (or multiply by 6.4).
Polyurea surpasses epoxy in durability, owing to its elastomeric nature. It is not only more flexible but also chemical-resistant, making it an ideal choice for areas with potential spillage.
Epoxy resins can be harmful if not used properly. All epoxy resin can cause skin irritation, however certain epoxy resin brands contain chemicals that may lead to respiratory issues, organ damage, as well as environmental harm if not handled with care.
Because resin injection underpinning is often faster and less expensive than other types of underpinning, it's usually the preferred method for an underpinning and slab levelling project.
Chemical underpinning, also referred to as resin injection and is an innovative non-invasive solution used to provide ground improvement and enhance the load-bearing capacity of a structure's foundation.