Concrete sidewalks have become a standard feature for many landscapes, including residential, business, and public spaces. They provide aesthetics but also double up as sturdy surfaces for convenient and safe walkways.  

Concrete sidewalks are durable and designed to withstand the test of time. But they deteriorate over time, develop stains, cracks, damages, or even sink, making them hazardous. Unkempt sidewalks with unexpected cracks, potholes, rises, debris, or ice can cause personal injuries for those using them, subsequently attracting lawsuits. So, proper care is crucial to keep concrete sidewalks safe and in tip-top shape.

Here are a few tips to help you repair and maintain your concrete sidewalk. 

Always Keep the Sidewalk Clean 

The most essential and easiest way to keep the concrete sidewalk safe is to always keep it clean. The value of cleaning your sidewalk goes beyond the benefits of appearance. It ensures substances that may threaten its integrity are eliminated. There are multiple cleaning options to choose from, depending on the condition of the sidewalk. The most basic is sweeping or using a leaf blower to eliminate debris, leaves, grass clippings, dust, and other substances. 

Other options include using a water hose, power washing treatment, or sanitization. If none of the methods above yields the desired result, don’t fret; a professional concrete cleaner can do the job. 

Ensure Proper Drainage System 

Poor drainage from the surrounding landscape is a leading cause of cracks and sinking in concrete sidewalks. This happens when water collects on or around the sidewalk and seeps under the concrete. As a result, the ground underneath may settle or shift and stress the concrete, causing it to crack or sink. 

The effects of poor drainage may not be overnight, but they can be extremely adverse and irreversible. Luckily, you can prevent this risk by taking appropriate measures to install a proper drainage system on the surrounding landscape. A few drainage systems to explore include slope, subsurface, and downspouts. 

Repair Concrete Cracks 

Many make the mistake of waiting until it’s too late to attend to concrete sidewalk cracks. It is crucial to take care of these cracks soon as they occur before they develop into bigger issues and costlier repairs. Simply use recommended fillers or sealants to protect the sidewalk from further damage and ensure its safety. You can always contract a professional concrete repair expert if you do not know how to fill or seal concrete cracks. 

The Final Word

Concrete sidewalks are designed to last. Unfortunately, they are not immune to the effects of heavy and prolonged use, adverse weather patterns, poor soil conditions, or other factors that may cause them to crack, sink, or heave. When this happens, the risk of slipping, tripping, and falling on the sidewalk becomes common and can attract serious legal, reputational, and financial consequences. So, taking care of your sidewalk should not be an option. 

There’s so much you can do to maintain the condition and safety of your concrete sidewalk, and the tips above are an excellent place to start. 

Contact us today for more information on concrete sidewalk maintenance.