In New York City, sidewalks are a pivotal commute network for pedestrians. Perhaps you won’t spot a street without a sidewalk! Generally, a sidewalk can last up to 25 years, depending on how it is treated. We mean factors like usage, weight, and maintenance determine the lifespan of sidewalks.

Concrete blocks or tiles- a sidewalk undergoes numerous structural deteriorations requiring minor repair jobs once in a while. Patching, sealing, filling, and levelling are the frequently done repair works contributing to the regular maintenance program.

Nevertheless, sometimes, sidewalk replacement Queens becomes essential to completely upgrade structural stability and aesthetic appeal. In such cases, you must hire a licensed and reputed professional for maximum effectiveness.

How does a professional remove and replace a sidewalk? What happens in the process? Before learning about the technique, let’s find out what calls for sidewalk replacement.

You Need Sidewalk Replacement: Top Signs

Repair or replacement- which is the ideal fix? To property owners, this is perhaps the most intimidating decision! So, we have listed the top signs indicating a full-scale sidewalk replacement. Check them out:

• Frequent Repairs- If your sidewalk needs occasional repair jobs, it means there is an underlying structural problem. Your sidewalk has become internally weak. Replacing it can aid a long-term solution.
• Deep Cracks- Though cracks are prevalent in sidewalks when they are deep and large, you must call sidewalk replacement contractors. Deep cracks are a significant threat.
• Overly Potholes- Are there too many potholes on your sidewalk? Beware! It implies severe foundational damage.
• Sunken Spots- Depressions on a sidewalk occur when the sub-base settles due to inadequate compaction. It can be substantially hazardous if you do not consider replacing the sidewalk.
• Disintegrating Curbs- The curbs crumble when there is extensive material deterioration due to ageing, abrasion, heavyweight, and natural calamities. They are dangerous until you replace them.

Steps Involved in Sidewalk Replacement

To replace a sidewalk, always hire a licensed and reputed contractor because the process is invasive and demands superior proficiency. Let’s understand how sidewalk replacement experts perform the task.

1. Remove Damaged Section- After assessing the source and severity of damage, the area is prepared for removal and replacement. Your sidewalk contractor will carefully remove the damaged section using a specialized saw and chisel.
2. Surface Preparation- Remove debris and loose particles from the project site to achieve a clean and smooth surface. The soil is then compacted to ensure a strong and stable foundation.
3. Mix and Pour Concrete- After base preparation, the surface is partially moistened to ensure enhanced bonding with the new material. Freshly prepared concrete mix is filled into the project area. The proportion of sand, lime, cement, and water in the concrete mix is the key factor determining the longevity of a sidewalk.
4. Finishing- Once the concrete is poured, the surface has to be levelled to accomplish a smooth finish. It is meticulously done to avoid bubbles and tooling marks.

The sidewalk replacement cost varies according to the project’s complexity, accessibility, and labor. However, you must not ignore a replacement project because it calls for urgency!