Hydrophobic foam is polyurethane that repels water rather than absorbing it, allowing it to cure and hold its strength even in wet soil or high-moisture conditions.
In depth
Hydrophobic behavior comes from the foam’s sealed closed-cell structure. Because it does not draw in water, it keeps its shape and load capacity when the ground is saturated, and it resists the erosion and washout that plague aggregate-based slurries. This is critical in climates with heavy rain, high water tables, or repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hydrophobic foams are the standard choice for wet locations such as pool decks, basement and garage floors, downspout areas, and shorelines, where a water-absorbing material would fail.
How Acme applies it. Acme’s residential RR-201 and commercial RR-401 foams are both high in hydrophobic properties, making them suitable for installation in wet locations across Northern Illinois.
Related terms: Closed-Cell Foam, Polyurethane Foam, Soil Washout, Freeze-Thaw Cycle
Frequently asked questions
What does hydrophobic mean for concrete repair?
It means the foam repels water instead of soaking it up, so it will not wash out or lose strength in wet soil, a major advantage over mudjacking slurry.
Is hydrophobic foam good for pool decks and basements?
Yes. Its water resistance makes it well suited to pool decks, basement floors, garage floors, and other damp or wet environments.