Although there are extreme cases when this is necessary, in most it is not needed. One case when a total replacement may be considered is when the 'trip hazard' is over 2 ½ inches high. Sidewalk is normally about 4 inches thick; grinding down more than 70% of the walkway's thickness could compromise the strength and cause breakage.

Another case that would surely require Method 1 would be a shattered sidewalk. We see this on old sidewalks, when there are multiple cracks and uneven areas within a small section. It is not difficult to determine whether the "Rip out, Replace" method is necessary.

Disadvantages

• Very Costly. In most cases, it is up to 10 times more expensive!!
• Can cause further problems. By disturbing the ground underneath, the new section often settles differently than at the time is poured- causing another uneven area!! Disturbing the ground can also easily kill trees in the area.
• Looks bad. Most times the new concrete is a much different color- and unprofessionally installed, causing unsightliness. The equipment used around the construction sight can also damage the landscape and cause a very ugly mess.
• Takes much more time than grinding. The whole process to cut, tear out, form, pour, dry, and clean up mess can take several days on a given project, as opposed to hours by the grinding method.
• Often settles afterwards, leaving another trip hazard. New pours can often look ugly.

Settling after a new pour	Unattractive new pour

 

This is a very temporary fix in most cases, however it can still be beneficial at times. An epoxy ramp is a solution (much like hard clay)… that is formed on the lower joining concrete, floating up flush to the high side of the adjacent section. The cost is less than replacement and comparable to a grind. An ideal situation to apply an epoxy ramp would be if a sidewalk (that is in good condition), sits lower than a porch entrance, or some other structure that is best undisturbed. Porch entrances and breezeways are essentially a part of the structure's slab foundation. For this reason, the owner may feel more comfortable applying an epoxy ramp to form an even transition, thus leaving the foundation undisturbed. The epoxy ramp as well as the sidewalk it sits on, are removable if ever necessary. Epoxy ramps can form transitions up to 4-5 inches, which is helpful when grinding is not possible.

Disadvantages
Not permanent. This solution is generally a very temporary one. The amount of time these ramps last before breaking up is relative to several things. Once they are broken up, the problem still lies beneath: a trip hazard. An epoxy fix here and there is not a bad thing. However, they are generally unattractive in most cases. A grind is much more pleasing to the eye, as well as sensible to management.
    

In most cases, grinding is the ultimate choice for many reasons. Concrete grinding takes advantage of situations where the concrete is still in good condition, yet 'trip hazards' have appeared.

• Fast! Eliminate up to 100 trip hazards in one day!!
• Lowest in Cost! Generally 10 times cheaper than replacement
• Looks Great! Grinding the surface smooth and uniformly
• Simple Operation - No need for a mess or large equipment
• Approved method - Meets ADA and 504 regulations
• Most permanent fix - Eliminate trip hazards
• No waste! Doesn't require ripping out and wasting good concrete!!!!
• Saves trees!!!! Due to the fact that Tree Roots are a main cause of 'trip hazards', they are often under the concrete to some degree. The trees are at great risk if replacing the concrete were considered. Disturbing the ground and the roots beneath the walkway often kills perfectly good trees. Therefore, grinding offers a perfect solution to this problem by not having to disturb the root system underneath.

Read more about the benefits and applications of Safewalks Concrete Grinding.