What this covers
A sidewalk looks simple, but a walk that stays level and sheds water is a matter of preparation. The company lays out the path and width, sets the grade so water runs off and not toward the house, excavates and compacts a gravel base, and sets forms with a slight cross slope. Concrete is poured, screeded, edged and broom-finished so it is not slick when wet. Control joints are tooled or cut at even intervals, and expansion joint material separates the walk from the driveway, steps and foundation so the slabs can move independently. Where the walk is public, the company follows the local standard for width, thickness and accessibility.
When to call
- A front walk that is cracked, heaved by roots or sunken at the joints.
- A new home or an addition that needs a path to the door.
- A walk the municipality has marked for repair.
- Standing water on the walk after rain.
What to expect
- Lay outPath, width and grade are marked, and any tree roots or utilities located.
- Base and formsOld concrete is removed, gravel compacted and forms set with cross slope.
- Pour and finishConcrete is placed, finished, edged and broom-textured.
- Joint and cureJoints are cut, expansion material set at adjoining slabs, and the walk cures.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Who is responsible for the public sidewalk?
In many places the homeowner maintains the sidewalk in front of the property even though the municipality owns it. The company can tell you whether a permit or inspection applies on your street.
Can a sidewalk be repaired one section at a time?
Yes. Individual panels between joints are cut out and repoured, which is one reason joints are placed at regular intervals.
Why does the walk slope sideways?
A slight cross slope sheds water instead of letting it pool and freeze. It is small enough not to notice underfoot.
Related: Concrete steps · Concrete leveling · Concrete driveways · All concrete and masonry
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.