Replies

1. 
   calvin | Dec 10, 2010 03:52pm | #1

   Is that hundreds of slabs?

   Depending on the number and the location-there are concrete lifting companies that "pump" up misaligned slabs.  Of course, without the proper install in the first place, sidewalks can move every season in a freezing climate.  Without a stable base that allows water to drain and gives a bit of cushion to frost heaving, you might see the problem reappear.  You could also see that happen after grinding too.

   What's the full description?  Tree roots lift sidewalks, driving on them can do it too.  How old is this work.

1. 
   Scott | Dec 11, 2010 12:12am | #3

   >>>Without a stable base that

   >>>Without a stable base that allows water to drain and gives a bit of cushion to frost heaving, you might see the problem reappear.

   THAT's the root of the problem. Grinding and lifting misaligned slabs will only prolong the inevitable, and throw good money after bad.

   There are plenty of examples of sidewalks that have stood intact for decades in areas of freeze/thaw climate. They were installed correctly.

1. 
   DanH | Dec 11, 2010 07:15am | #4

   But when a sidewalk is 40 years old and is heaving an inch it's likely that most of the motion that's gonna occur has already occurred.

   This is one case where it makes more sense to invest the money/effort on old concrete vs new.

2. 
   DanH | Dec 10, 2010 08:47pm | #2

   I've seen it done, but never timed the guy.  I suspect that skill and experience figure in to a significant degree.

3. 
   k1c | Dec 12, 2010 11:24am | #5

   sidewalk

   This is pure speculation but how about hiring a heavy bulldozer or a bucket and just trying to push down on the raised part?  If you're in the sunbelt it is probably not freezing that did it.  Maybe it is clay soil or animals undermining the base?

   sorry can't be more help but is crazy idea that just popped up.

1. 
   semar | Dec 17, 2010 11:28pm | #6

   lifting sidewalk

   Tree roots?