An uneven concrete walkway creates a trip hazard — at a panel joint, a tree root heave, or a settled section. Three options exist: grind the raised edge, replace the problem section, or replace the full walkway.
Concrete grinding (edge leveling)
Grinding is appropriate for small height differentials at panel joints — typically less than 1.5 inches. Grinding does not address the underlying cause. If the root or soil continues to move, the raised edge will return.
Section replacement
When a panel is badly damaged or the height differential exceeds what grinding can address, section replacement is the right approach. The damaged panel is saw-cut at the joints, removed, the base inspected and corrected, and a new pour is placed.
Full walkway replacement
Full replacement makes sense when multiple panels are affected, the walkway is old enough that section repairs would leave the remainder in poor condition within a few years, or the underlying cause requires regrading that affects the full length.
Related: Sidewalks service · Repair vs. replacement guide · Pricing · FAQ