Keeping Your Community Safe: A Guide to Sidewalk Repair

Sidewalks are an essential part of any community infrastructure. They provide a safe and accessible path for pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists. However, over time, concrete sidewalk repair can become damaged due to weather, wear and tear, and tree root growth. Uneven or broken sidewalks can cause serious injuries, especially for older adults, children, and people with disabilities.  

This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of sidewalk repair, including the different types of repairs, the factors to consider when repairing a sidewalk, and the benefits of keeping your sidewalks in good condition.

Types of Sidewalk Repair

The type of sidewalk repair needed will depend on the severity of the damage. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of repairs:

• Crack Repair: Hairline cracks and minor cracks (less than ¼ inch wide) can often be repaired with a simple crack sealant. For larger cracks (¼ inch to ½ inch wide), a process called crack routing is typically used. In crack routing, a thin section of concrete is removed along the length of the crack and then filled with a special sealant.  
   
• Mudjacking: Settling or sunken concrete slabs can be lifted and leveled using a process called mudjacking. In mudjacking, a slurry of grout is pumped beneath the slab to lift it back to its original position.  
   

   
• Slab Replacement: For severely damaged or uneven slabs, replacement may be necessary. This involves removing the old slab and replacing it with a new section of concrete.  
   
• Drainage Improvement: Poor drainage can contribute to sidewalk damage. If you notice water pooling on your sidewalk, you may need to improve drainage by installing or repairing French drains or by regrading the soil around the sidewalk.  
   

Factors to Consider When Repairing a Sidewalk

Before you begin any sidewalk repairs, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The severity of the damage: As mentioned earlier, the type of repair will depend on the severity of the damage. Minor cracks can often be repaired with a simple sealant, while more extensive damage may require slab replacement.
• The cause of the damage: Identifying the cause of the damage will help you to prevent it from happening again in the future. Common causes of sidewalk damage include tree root growth, poor drainage, and soil erosion.
• The size of the area to be repaired: The size of the area to be repaired will affect the cost of the repairs.  
   
• The budget: Sidewalk repairs can range in cost from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to get quotes from several contractors before you begin any work.  
   
• Permits and regulations: In most communities, you will need to obtain a permit before you can begin any sidewalk repairs. Be sure to check with your local building department to find out what permits are required.  
   

Benefits of Keeping Your Sidewalks in Good Condition

There are many benefits to keeping your sidewalks in good condition. Here are just a few:

• Safety: Safe sidewalks help to prevent injuries from slips, trips, and falls. This is especially important for older adults, children, and people with disabilities.  
   
• Accessibility: Sidewalks that are in good condition are easier for everyone to use, including people with wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.
• Property Values: Sidewalks that are in good condition can help to improve the curb appeal of your property and increase its value.  
   
• Community Pride: Well-maintained sidewalks contribute to a more attractive and inviting community.  
   

How to Choose a Sidewalk Repair Contractor

When choosing a sidewalk repair contractor, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Experience: Be sure to choose a contractor who has experience repairing sidewalks. Ask for references and check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed against the contractor.  
   
• Insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. This will protect you in case of any accidents or injuries that occur during the repairs.  
   
• Warranty: Ask the contractor about their warranty on their work. A good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that the repairs will be covered if they fail within a certain period of time.
• Price: Get quotes from several contractors before you make a decision. Be sure to compare the prices of apples to apples, such as the thickness of the concrete and the type of materials used.