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Concrete Grinding for Trip Hazards
Almost all communities have sidewalks and trees, and the combination of the two often results in lifted sections of concrete which create trip hazards and liability for the Association.
An inexpensive method of addressing the trip hazard is to grind down the lifted section of concrete. Some vendors also offer concrete cutting. Which do you choose?
Our recommendation is to grind lifted sections of concrete because we believe it is the safer alternative. Here’s why:
All walking surfaces in California are required to be slip resistant. Any sidewalk with a slick surface is a hazard. The Federal Highway Administration regulates sidewalks also, and has this to say… “Under dry conditions, most asphalt and concrete surfaces are fairly slip resistant….A broom finish should be used on concrete sidewalks to increase the slip resistance for pedestrians. Decorative paints and surfaces, such as polished stones or exposed aggregate rock, are not as slip resistant and should be avoided.”
In our view, the cutting method trades one hazard (trip hazard) for another (slip hazard). The cutting method leaves a very smooth surface that tends to become even smoother over time. When wet, these surfaces can become quite slick when compared to a typical broom finish.
Concrete grinding leaves a rougher texture and is actually less slip resistant than a broom finish. This is why UPSI only offers concrete grinding and replacement to abate your community’s trip hazards. Just thought you might want to know.