How much does it cost to replace a sidewalk?

Do those cracks on your sidewalks mean that it is a goner or can it be fixed on a weekend without the cost of removing and replacing the concrete sidewalk? We will help you take out the guesswork by providing you with the guidelines for replacing your sidewalks and the replacement cost associated with the same.

Streets and sidewalks are for everyone’s use. What some property owners do not realize is that they are responsible for maintaining part of the sidewalks adjacent or next to their property, if unimproved. As sidewalks are public property, many homeowners assume that it is a public responsibility. However, the truth is that many cities and municipalities like one in NYC hold the property owners directly adjacent to the sidewalk responsible for its repairs.

When is your Sidewalk considered to be Damaged?

Unfortunately for the damage and replacement, there is no real-time frame or dates set but rather some guidelines or symptoms. A sidewalk is considered to be damaged and in need of repair in the following instances:

1. Though sidewalks are made from the most durable construction material and can last you long but they can deteriorate over time. When you see large, deep cracks, you should start considering replacement over repairs.

2. When there is a fault or discontinuity greater than 1/2 inch in the sidewalk.

3. If the sidewalk has lost its luster or sheen and some techniques like resealing don’t do the job, your sidewalks need a replacement.

4. If there is large-scale damage to your sidewalk like potholes, large cracks, or any piece of sidewalk being moved with ordinary foot pressure, you might be better off replacing it.

These are just a couple of issues surrounding the sidewalk, but another important aspect to consider is the associated costs.

Replacing and Repairing a Sidewalk

Concrete sidewalks have become a staple of urban society, with every city and suburb being covered in miles of sidewalks and large cities like New York is being dubbed as a concrete jungle.

Replacing or repairing a sidewalk can cost in the range of hundreds or thousands of dollars depending on the extent of the damage. Plus, many factors affect the total project costs, including the concrete’s thickness, the sidewalk’s shape, and the type of finish. While it can lead to additional cost if you remove or pour new concrete, it will differ in price from trying to repair cracks and other imperfections.

How much does Sidewalk Replacement Cost?

When you have a cracked or raised portion on your sidewalk, it will not only look unattractive but it can also be a major safety hazard for pedestrians. It is understandable that you may feel the urge to get this fixed on your own before anyone gets hurt. If it is, in fact, your responsibility, consider the potential cost based on square foot and the type of repair you’d like to complete. Besides that, total sidewalk removal and re-pouring concrete can cost more than fixing a crack but it is sometimes worth it for a property owner looking for aesthetics and safety.

Most homeowners pay around $9 per square foot for concrete sidewalk installation. But not every concrete sidewalk is the same. According to our experience in several projects, the price typically ranges between $5 and $12 per square foot, depending on the details of the project. However, your sidewalk might fall below or above the typical range. Several facets can impact total costs, such as the sidewalk’s size, the concrete grade used, and much more.

All in all, replacing a sidewalk slab typically involves removing the remainder of the existing slab and then laying new concrete on top. To level the existing concrete with the rest of the sidewalk, it might also require adding a base layer of aggregate. Here are some factors that can the impact cost:

1. Removing and replacing existing concrete: If you want your contractor to remove what’s left of your existing sidewalk before replacing it, you will likely need to pay more since the removal adds another half hour to 1 hour depending on the damaged concrete.

2. Extensive work like adding a base layer: Sometimes, the project requirements are different. That is for uneven slabs, you might need to add a base layer beneath the replacement to make it equal. Since it requires more material and time, it will increase the overall cost to replace your slab. Plus, some concrete mixtures are stronger and more durable than others, resulting in higher costs.

3. Other factors: Size and work do play a significant role in the cost, but it is not the only item affecting the cost. For instance:

   1. Type of finish

   2. Shape

   3. Thickness

   4. Accessibility

   5. Concrete removal