| Bulk-In-Fill Grouting
is typically called for when the roof of a
void collapses, or a sink hole or depression
forms producing deformation of the ground
surface or when pre-construction site testing
uncovers such potential defects. The gradual
deterioration of the void, usually over a
period of years, most often appears as cone
shaped depression, or hole at the surface
which can result in damage to buildings, utilities
and roads. Voids
can form under a variety of conditions both
natural and man made. Trash and rubbish
buried during construction will produce
a void as it decomposes. If the trash pit
is located under a concrete slab, building
footer or foundation structural damage will
often result form the subsidence. Sanitary
and storm sewer pipes breaking will allow
fill materials to carried away producing
underground voids.
Damage to structures
from void formation may be minimal to severe.
These damages may include cracking in foundation
walls and floor slabs, cracking of brick
veneer, vertical displacement of the structure
with severe tilting an inability to properly
open and close doors and windows. Under
extreme instances, complete structural failures
can occur.
Filling of the void
is conducted in one of several ways depending
upon a variety of factors including location
of the water table, the size of the cavity,
its proximity to the surface and location
in relation to structures.
One common and simple
technique used to stabilize the subsurface
and prevent subsidence is using cement based
Portland cement or chemical grouts and foams
to fill the cavity below. This method employs
the use of pneumatic or drilling equipment
to install pipes that connect the surface
to the void below. The pipes act as conduits
to the subsurface void allowing grout to
be installed. Grout pipes can be from 1-¼
inches up to 8 inches in diameter, depending
on grout mixture and placement volume desired.
Once the grout pipe or pipes are in place
it is a simple matter to fill the cavity.
With the use of shut off valves and pressure
gauges it is possible to determine when
the cavity has been filled. Once the cavity
has been filed the pumps and valves are
turned off and the grout allowed to cure.
Grout-Tech specializes
in filling voids. Our engineers and geologists
can determine the best and most cost effective
solution to rectify nearly any situation.
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