The Hidden Dangers of Voids Under Structures

Voids forming below structures probably isn't something you think about too often. While they may not be a common issue in Canada, voids are not as rare as you might think. Some voids present themselves as sinkholes and are pretty noticeable once they form. But sometimes voids form below foundation slabs, making them harder to notice and much more dangerous. As a homeowner, property manager or construction professional, you might have heard about the importance of filling voids under structures. But do you know what voids are, how they form and why they can be dangerous? In this blog post, we'll look at the hidden dangers of voids under structures and how FillFoam™ Canada can help you mitigate the risks. Read on to learn more!

What Causes Voids to Form Under Structures?

Voids under structures are empty spaces that occur between the foundation and the soil. Voids form beneath structures due to various factors, including natural settlement, poor construction practices, or external forces such as excavation or grading. When the soil beneath a structure becomes uneven or unstable, empty spaces can form, creating voids. These voids can range from small gaps to larger caverns and can occur anywhere under the structure. Voids can be a serious problem as they can lead to uneven settling of the foundation, causing structural damage (possibly leading to eventual collapse), moisture and water damage, and pest infestation. Filling voids as soon as they're detected is essential to prevent these hazards from occurring.

Why are Voids Dangerous?

Voids under structures can cause many problems that can be expensive and hazardous. Voids under structures can pose serious risks to the safety and stability of the building and sometimes create health risks to people using the building. Some of the hazards that voids can create are:

1. Structural Damage: Voids below structures can cause uneven settling of the foundation, leading to cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings. In extreme cases, voids can even cause the structure to collapse.
2. Moisture and Water Damage: Voids under structures can allow moisture and water to seep into the building, causing damage to the foundation, walls, and floors. This can lead to mould growth, which can be a health hazard for occupants. 
3. Pest Infestation: Voids under structures can provide a home for pests such as rodents, termites, and ants, which can cause damage to the structure and pose health risks.

How Do You Fill Voids Under Structures?

One of the most effective ways to fill voids under structures is by using FillFoam™. FillFoam™ is a high-quality, two-part resin-blown foam used to fill voids under structures. FillFoam™ is specially designed to expand and fill gaps and voids of all shapes and sizes, creating a strong, durable, and stable foundation. Unlike traditional void-filling methods, FillFoam™ can penetrate even the smallest gaps and crevices, ensuring a complete and thorough fill. FillFoam™ is also resistant to moisture, pests, and mould, making it an ideal solution for voids under structures. By filling voids with FillFoam™, property owners and construction professionals can prevent structural damage, moisture and water damage, and pest infestations, ensuring the safety and stability of the building for years to come. 

The Benefits of Using FillFoam™ to Fill Voids

FillFoam™ offers many benefits for a variety of void-filling applications. Whether it is a sinkhole, a void beneath a concrete foundation slab or roadway, an abandoned mine or decommissioned pipe or tank, FillFoam™ is the ideal solution to fill almost any size void. Some of the benefits of using FillFoam™ to fill voids under your structure are:

• Improved Safety: By filling voids with FillFoam™, you can improve the safety and stability of your building, reducing the risk of structural damage and collapse.
• Moisture Prevention: FillFoam™ can prevent moisture and water from seeping into your building, reducing the risk of water damage and mould growth.
• Pest Control: By filling voids with FillFoam™, you can eliminate hiding places for pests, reducing the risk of infestations and damage to your structure.
• Cost-effective: Filling voids with FillFoam™ is a cost-effective solution compared to other repair or replacement methods.
• Long-Lasting: FillFoam™ is a long-lasting solution for filling voids under structures. Because it is not affected by environmental factors, water or pests, it will last decades without deteriorating.
• Environmentally Friendly:  FillFoam™ is also environmentally friendly. It doesn't produce any volatile organic compounds during installation. Once cured, it is completely inert and will not leach harmful chemicals into the ground around it.

FillFoam™ Canada Can Help You With Your Void Filling Needs

Voids under structures are a serious risk to the safety and stability of your building. But by using FillFoam™ to fill voids, you can improve your structure's safety, stability and longevity while also preventing moisture and pest problems. At FillFoam Canada, we specialize in void-filling solutions for residential, commercial, industrial, municipal and agricultural customers. We serve all of Canada through our west, central and east locations. For more information about FillFoam™ and how we can help you fill voids under your building, contact FillFoam™ Canada today.