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Sidewalk FAQ
Welcome to our Concrete Sidewalk FAQ page, where we address common questions and provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re considering a new concrete sidewalk installation, maintenance, or repairs, we’ve got you covered with expert answers to guide you to a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and long-lasting sidewalk.
Sidewalk Q&A
Installation
Typically, demolition is completed within a single day, followed by the concrete crew’s return to pour concrete 1-3 days later. It’s important to note that concrete pouring is contingent upon weather conditions; inclement weather, particularly rain, may cause delays.
After 24 hours, you can start walking on your new sidewalk.
The cost can vary widely depending on factors like location, size, thickness, and decorative elements. But, you’re in luck because we have a pricing calculator that can give you a great estimate.
Concrete can be installed at any time of the year, but the ideal temperature range is between 40°F and 60°F. Extreme temperatures can affect the curing process and the final strength of the concrete.
Let’s be real…, we do live in Minnesota so there are plenty of pro tips and tricks we use to pour concrete year-round.
In many areas, a permit is required for sidewalk installation, especially if it’s in the public right-of-way. It’s essential to check with your local building department or municipality for specific regulations.
There are several decorative options, including stamping, staining, and engraving, which can mimic the look of stone, brick, or other materials and add aesthetic value to your property. Let us know what you’re thinking and we’ll find you a great solution.
Maintenance
DO NOT use any salt or deicers on your new concrete. These products can produce a chemical reaction with the concrete that will cause physical damage. Use of these products will void the warranty. We recommend using SAND, this will not cause any harm to the new concrete.
It is best to use a plastic shovel to avoid scratching the concrete.
A snow shovel or snow blower with a steel cutting/scraping edge will leave behind tiny amounts of steel on the surface of the concrete. These small amounts of steel will oxidize and rust, leaving rust visible on the surface of the concrete which is difficult to remove.
Regular maintenance includes keeping it clean, sealing it every few years to protect against water and freeze-thaw cycles, and avoiding the use of harsh chemicals like de-icers that can damage the surface.
Stain removal depends on the type of stain. For oil or grease stains, applying a degreaser and scrubbing with a stiff brush can be effective. Rust stains may require a rust remover product. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Regularly applying a weed killer in the cracks and joints can help prevent growth. You can also use a polymeric sand filler in the joints to block seeds from taking root.
Repairs
Walkways and sidewalks are exposed to a lot of wear and tear. When the soil supporting the concrete becomes weak, the concrete can crack and sink.
Many things can create a void beneath the slab, such as erosion from rainwater or gutter runoff, or a tree root that has rotted over time. Dirt fill underneath the slab that has yet to be well compacted can also create voids beneath the concrete.
Regardless of what has caused your sidewalk to sink, we can fix it!
Small cracks can often be repaired using concrete filler or sealant. This is a cost-effective solution for minor damage and can prevent water from seeping in and worsening the crack. However, large or deep cracks might necessitate partial or complete replacement of the affected section.
If tree roots have lifted a sidewalk slab, options include grinding down the raised edge to eliminate trip hazards, slab jacking to even out the slabs, or removing and replacing the affected slab. In some cases, it may also involve addressing the tree roots themselves, which should be done carefully to avoid damaging the tree.
Repairs to decorative concrete can be more challenging but are possible. Matching the color and pattern as closely as possible is key to making sure the repair blends in with the original design.