There are several steps involved in Sidewalk Replacement. These steps include cost, design, and maintenance of your existing sidewalks. Permit requirements may also be involved. It is important to understand all the steps involved before beginning the project. In addition, you should understand the permitting process and what to expect when your project is finished. Interested readers can find more information about them at Native Concrete & Sidewalk-Sidewalk Repair
Cost of sidewalk replacement
If your sidewalk is badly damaged, you may be eligible to receive some or all of the cost of replacement through your homeowner’s insurance. However, the exact cost will depend on the type of damage and your policy. As a result, it’s important to compare multiple estimates from different contractors to get the best deal. You should also know exactly what the price includes, including prep and clean up work. Also, be sure to ask for references and make sure the contractor is licensed.
The average cost of a sidewalk repair is $60-$200. This includes crack and hole repair, slab replacement, and design work. In addition to patching the sidewalk, you may also need to repair the cracks with concrete grout and caulk. If the cracks are not too deep, you can repair them with do-it-yourself materials. Concrete patch kits are available for about $10 to $50. You may also need to rent a masonry grinder to get the job done correctly.
Design of new sidewalk
Creating a landscaped buffer is an important aspect of sidewalk design. It provides an improved visual environment and improves pedestrian safety. A landscaped buffer should be at least two feet wide, and it should be wider if space allows. Ideally, there should be room for trees, street signs, and storage bins for snow and ice. It can also accommodate poles, fire hydrants, and mail boxes.
When designing a new sidewalk, consider the type of material to be used for its construction. Concrete is a common choice, but there are many other materials that are more environmentally friendly. Decomposed granite, crushed stone, brick, pervious paving, and rubber are all options. If your project connects to an existing sidewalk, consider using the same material. Otherwise, you may need to select an alternate material.
Maintenance of existing sidewalks
When it comes to sidewalk repair, there are several factors to keep in mind. First, concrete and asphalt pavements can develop cracks that can be difficult to notice and grow over time. Also, roots from nearby trees can lift slabs and create uneven sidewalks. These problems should be repaired as soon as possible, and cracked sidewalks should be moved or extended to prevent further damage.
Second, most communities combine a sidewalk replacement program with a short-term repair program to address the immediate hazards on the sidewalk while the replacement program cycles through the city. Some communities may decide to manage an annual program, but this requires a large investment in maintenance and inspection.
Permit requirements
If you are planning to replace your sidewalk, you must first obtain a permit. This is required for any work that is going to be performed on or near a street. There are some common requirements for these permits. In addition to the permit, you must get approval from the city before you can start construction.
A permit is required if you plan to install a new sidewalk in a busy commercial area. It costs about $70 per 300 linear feet, and multiple permits may be required if your sidewalk crosses a corner or is in a through lot. In addition, a permit is required if you plan on installing a new sidewalk that will be more than one-fourth of a street’s width.
Impact of tree roots on sidewalks
In some cases, the roots of a tree can cause sidewalk damage. These roots grow in varying widths and heights and can extend as far as six feet. In addition to lifting the sidewalk, they can also cause problems with nearby infrastructure. Fortunately, there are several methods of preventing the sidewalk from being damaged by tree roots.
One option is to carefully remove the roots. These roots need to be cut back to a size that does not cause additional damage to the sidewalk. Ideally, the root diameter is no larger than 1-1/2 inches. It is preferable to cut off just the top of the root rather than removing the entire root. Shaving the roots will leave a callus that will grow quickly. Another option is to use a layer of rigid foam in between the root surface and the newly installed concrete.