Questions
Frequently asked questions
How thick should a sidewalk be?
Four inches over a compacted base is standard for a residential sidewalk or walkway. Where a driveway or vehicles cross the walk, we thicken it to six inches and add reinforcement so it carries the load.
How far apart should control joints be on a sidewalk?
As a rule of thumb, joint spacing in feet is close to the slab thickness in inches, so a four-inch walk gets joints roughly every four to five feet. Proper spacing is the main thing that keeps a sidewalk from cracking randomly.
Can you fix an uneven sidewalk instead of replacing it?
Often yes. If the concrete is sound but a panel has settled or lifted, we can level it to remove the trip hazard. If a slab is cracked through, spalled, or heaved badly, replacing that panel is the better long-term fix, and we will tell you which applies.
Who is responsible for repairing the public sidewalk in front of my house?
In many Ohio communities the adjacent property owner is responsible for the public sidewalk, which is why the city can flag it for repair. Requirements vary by community, so we build to the applicable standard and can pour it to pass inspection.
How do you keep a walkway from getting slippery in winter?
We finish sidewalks with a broom texture that grips when wet or icy, and we can seal the surface to resist salt damage. A textured, sealed walk gives better footing and holds up longer against freeze-thaw than a smooth, unsealed one.
