When tree roots damage public sidewalks, they can create major tripping hazards and potential liabilities. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to safely and efficiently remove a section of a public sidewalk that was lifted by tree roots, all while protecting the surrounding concrete and preparing the area for future repairs.
Step 1: Assess the Area and Prepare for Removal
In this project, we had 30 lineal feet of raised sidewalk caused by large tree roots. Since we were only removing part of the sidewalk and leaving the undamaged sections intact, we began by saw-cutting along the joint where the damaged concrete meets the section that will stay. This ensures clean edges and prevents cracks or further damage to the remaining sidewalk.
Step 2: Use Proper Equipment for Concrete Removal
Using a Bobcat or similar machinery is ideal for lifting and removing concrete. In our case, the Bobcat helped us lift 5×5-foot concrete panels, making the process much faster. If you don’t own a Bobcat, no worries—many equipment rental shops offer these machines for a reasonable price.
- Start with the Most Raised Area: We began by lifting the highest section of the sidewalk. Gently raise the concrete with the Bobcat, and then break it into smaller pieces using a sledgehammer if needed.
- Work Carefully Around Existing Concrete: For sections close to undamaged sidewalk, be extra cautious. We recommend using wooden or metal stakes between the joint to prevent the panels from damaging the surrounding area as you lift and pull the concrete back.
Step 3: Break Down Larger Slabs
Sometimes, the joint between sidewalk panels may not be fully cracked. In these cases, after lifting the slab, use a sledgehammer to break the panel into smaller, manageable sections. This helps with easier removal and loading onto a trailer for disposal.
Step 4: Load the Broken Concrete
Once the concrete is broken into sections, use the Bobcat to load it into your trailer or dump truck. As shown in the video, this process is quick and efficient, especially with the right machinery. Even without heavy equipment, you can still complete the job with some extra manual labor.
Step 5: Prepare for Tree Root Removal
After the concrete removal, inspect the root system that caused the damage. In this case, large roots from a pine tree located about five feet from the sidewalk had lifted the concrete. We recommend grinding down the tree stump and any roots that may interfere with future repairs before proceeding with concrete replacement.
Step 6: Secure the Work Area
Finally, once the concrete is removed and the area is clear, it’s important to secure the site with barricades or caution tape. This helps ensure safety for pedestrians and vehicles while the site remains open.
By following these steps, you can efficiently remove damaged sidewalk sections without risking damage to the surrounding concrete. This process took us about an hour to complete using the right equipment, making it a fast and effective solution for sidewalk repairs.
Video Tutorial:
Watch our full step-by-step guide on removing a sidewalk damaged by tree roots: