Concrete sidewalks are common in residential and commercial areas across Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC. But some of them are not up to par. And the consequences to property owners can range from lost curb appeal to major lawsuits due to injuries.
If not poured or maintained properly, your new concrete sidewalk could pose safety risks to you and other pedestrians. And you could be left with a lawsuit of your own.
Is Your Sidewalk Safe to Step On?
Ask yourself these questions before stepping on your new concrete sidewalk for the first time.
(1) Is my concrete sidewalk cured?
Concrete takes 28 days to cure – and it can take even longer if the temperature falls below 50 or above 80 degrees. Reputable concrete pavers in the DC area recommend waiting the full 28 days before stepping on your new sidewalk. But if you can’t wait that long, try to wait at least 24 hours. If your concrete has not hardened within 28 days, call your paving contractor.
(2) Is my concrete sidewalk cracked?
Cracking within the first 28 days is a sign of poorly cured concrete. If your new concrete sidewalk cracks within that time, call your paving contractor immediately. More than just an eyesore, cracked sidewalks can pose a major hazard, especially for elderly pedestrians. Do not walk on the sidewalk, and place cones around it to help others avoid possible injuries such as cuts, bruises, and broken bones.
(3) Is my concrete sidewalk raised?
Commonly caused by vehicle accidents or large tree roots, raised concrete is rarely a problem within the first 28 days. If it does occur, however, call your DC paving contractor immediately. As with cracked concrete, raised concrete is a sign of low-quality work and should not be walked on until it has been re-laid.
Choosing Your Concrete Sidewalk Company
Creating a high-quality concrete sidewalk requires diligent effort both before and after pouring. Will your paving contractor produce a concrete sidewalk that cures correctly and is free of cracks the first time around? If not, you could face more than just a dent in your curb appeal. You could face a major lawsuit.
Before you contract a DC-area paving company to pour your concrete sidewalk, verify the company’s reputation for high-quality work. Are concrete sidewalks one of the company’s main services? How long have they been pouring concrete in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC? Does the website show photos of clean, well-maintained sidewalks?
Concrete Sidewalk Services at Pro-Pave, Inc.
Pro-Pave, Inc. provides a full range of concrete sidewalk services, including sidewalk maintenance, for clients in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC.
For more information about concrete sidewalks, call Pro-Pave, Inc. at (703) 433-9500.
