There is a reason why Rochester, MI residents love concrete, especially on their sidewalks. Concrete is not only widely used because of its durability, and strength, but its unmatched versatility as well. It is a sturdy material that can withstand years of traffic as well as deterioration.
However, there are some conditions under which it can potentially break down or experience damage. In this regard, temperature changes, shifting of the ground, and persistent stressful weight can all impact the health of your concrete.
It is very important to take note of any cracks that may occur because of the above factors bearing in mind that these cracks can pose some serious risks. But when is the best time to consider repairing or replacing your concrete? Research shows that most Rochester, MI residents don’t know when to either repair or replace their concrete sidewalks. As experts in the construction industry, we are here to provide you with all you need to know about taking care of your concrete sidewalks.
But before we tackle this particular question, let us first equip you with some basic concrete sidewalk knowledge.
It is worth noting that there are two types of sidewalks, including pedestrian and private sidewalks. Also referred to as shared user sidewalks, pedestrian sidewalks are available in the category of city easements. However, they are part of a homeowner’s property, implying that homeowners must take care of these types of sidewalks. What’s more, homeowners should know that both the replacement and repair needs of these sidewalks are fulfilled by the city’s ordinance.
On the other hand, private sidewalks, just as the name implies, are intended for personal use. They lead the homeowner from the pedestrian driveway or sidewalk to their front door. These sidewalks are exclusively managed by the homeowners themselves. On most occasions, the maintenance, as well as replacement requirements, are guided by the city’s policies and regulations. This means it’s important to use these guidelines as a guide. Occasionally, such sidewalks may need to be either resurfaced or patched using top-notch concrete material.
So, this implies that both the replacement and repair needs of a sidewalk are determined by both the severity and types of damage experienced.
- Cracks: It is worth noting that there are two types of cracks, including hairline and narrow cracks. Narrow cracks are relatively easy to replace. However, you should not mistake them for hairline cracks, which are usually more intense and installed in larger areas of the sidewalk. On the other hand, hairline cracks are usually viewed as a spider web. Their presence usually shows that the concrete was poorly mixed. When you see them, it’s usually a time to replace your sidewalks. And if you are finding it hard to spot them, just take a walk over the blurry cracks and examine if they have become bigger or more pronounced.
- Exposure over time: While concrete is highly durable, it can be prone to damage, especially when exposed to inclement weather and excess weight. Therefore, it is not surprising to see them shift and crack over time. Cracking sidewalks can increase your risk of falling, especially if their surfaces start to fluctuate. If you realize that the difference between the two sections of your sidewalks is more than 2.5-inches, you should seriously consider replacing them.
In conclusion, you should replace your sidewalk if there are visible signs of wear and tear, small chips or cracks, or damage within two inches. On the other hand, you may need to replace your sidewalk if you have deep cracks in your sidewalk’s sub-base or completely broken slabs.