Problem
Sidewalks on the perimeter of the county schools’ parking lots had
sunken up to 2” next to the curb. Students and faculty members had to
watch their steps carefully anytime they entered or exited the building
daily due to the serious trip hazards present. This was a major liability
for the school that needed to be resolved.
Solution
Foam Solutions Inc. injected polyurethane foam beneath the existing
sidewalk slabs. FSI was able to raise, level, and stabilize the sidewalks
without the need for demolition and replacement at four county
schools so far this season. FSI provided a cost-effective solution that
saved the taxpayers and CCPS a large amount of money. Work was
completed in 1-2 days at each school and foam injection was able to
take place during arrival and dismissal of students as we did not interfere
with the schools operation.
Summary
Foam Solutions Inc. was contracted by Carroll County Public
Schools Facilities Department in 2021 to raise, level, and stabilize sidewalks
at many schools throughout the county. The State of Maryland
Inspection Board determined several schools violated ADA guidelines.
The ADA act of 1990 states that any vertical change greater than a ¼”
is considered a trip hazard. To eliminate these hazards, FSI injected
polyurethane foam to raise and level the concrete walkways for
students, faculty members, and the community. With the public school
system being on a strict budget, FSI’s method of raising and leveling
their concrete sidewalks saved them approximately 70% of the cost of
replacement.