Signs of Damaged Sidewalks and Ways to Fix Them
Fixing damaged sidewalks is essential to avoid injuries and DOT violations. But as a property owner, how do you identify that your sidewalks are damaged and need repairs? Assessing the sidewalks for signs of damage and knowing when to repair and replace them is a good approach to avoiding future hassle.
Taking professional help to fix your damaged concrete sidewalks is also a wide decision. Concrete specialists know when to fix the sidewalks and the techniques that will be a good fit.
Cracked Surface
Concrete cracks because of its contraction and compression during hot and cold weather. Minor cracks less than ½ inch are usually fixable with simple resurfacing techniques, while cracks wider than 1 inch in width might require complete replacement services.
Damaged Edges
Professionals install an expansion joint of more than 1 inch between the sidewalk and driveway. With time, the expansion material leaves, and a wide gap forms. This gap can be filled using a concrete caulk. If the gap is big, DOT recommends replacing the sidewalk or driveway apron.
Uneven Slabs
Sidewalks can become uneven due to soil erosion, freeze-thaw cycles, and tree root invasion. If the displacement is greater than one inch but less than one and a half inches, saw cutting and mudjacking are good options. For bigger damages, replacement is a wise option.
When it comes to damages caused by tree roots, the solution is first to eliminate the problematic tree roots and then fix the damages.
Drainage Issues
Poor drainage systems and missing slopes on sidewalks become reasons for standing water and its accumulation. If not fixed timely, the water can erode the soil and lead to structural damage. For appropriate drainage, complete replacement of sidewalks can be a wise option.
Spaling
Sapling on the concrete surface appears because of the water damage. If you notice minor spalling, chipping, or other deteriorations less than 4 square inches, you can repair it through the resurfacing method. For major saplings, complete replacement of the damaged slab is a good option.
Who Is Responsible For Sidewalk Maintenance?
In New York City, the property owner is responsible for maintaining their residential or commercial sidewalks. Whether you notice the damages yourself or receive a DOT violation notice, it is your job to get the violations fixed before an accident happens.
Getting a permit from the Department of Transportation is essential to fix the damages as per city laws. Taking professional help allows you to make the process smooth, quick, and efficient.
Licensed contractors know about the types of materials and different repair techniques. Moreover, they apply for a DOT permit on your behalf and stay with you from start to finish.
Repairing vs. Replacing Your Damaged Sidewalks?
Checking the level of damage is the first step in deciding whether to repair or replace your sidewalks. Let us tell you when to repair and when to replace sidewalks.
Repairing sidewalks is an efficient choice when:
- Small chips, cracks, or spalling
- Damages less than 2 inches
- Wear and tear due to weather and de-icing salts
Replacing concrete slabs is an efficient choice when:
- The sidewalk has deep cracks and uneven slabs.
- Drainage issues and water damages
- Fully-broken slabs
Consequences of Not Fixing Sidewalks on Time
Avoiding timely repairs can lead to extensive issues and costly future repairs. There are many other problems that you might experience, including:
- Slip and trip accidents increase, and people might get injured.
- You might become liable for the injuries people sustain.
- Violate DOT regulations and have to pay hefty fines
- Reduce the curb appeal and resale value of the property.
- Extensive and costly future repairs
Conclusion
Fixing damaged sidewalks is your responsibility, and prioritizing the repairs can save you from extensive future problems. Knowing about the common signs of concrete damage mentioned above, we hope that now you are able to take prompt action.
For quick, efficient, and reliable repairs, we advise you to get professional help and ensure that your sidewalks are safe, functional, and compliant with DOT regulations.
