How to Choose a Contractor for Concrete Sidewalk Repair in Oklahoma City, OK
You’ll want to hire a professional contractor when you need concrete sidewalk repair. You can do this by following the steps outlined below:
Estimate the cost.
Inspect the sidewalk for underlying problems.
Discuss what safety hazards may be present.
Here are some factors to remember as you shop for sidewalk contractors. You may be pleasantly surprised at how inexpensive it can be! Then you can decide whether it is worth getting it done yourself.
Cost of repairing a concrete sidewalk
If you have cracked or broken concrete sidewalks, you should first determine whether it is worth repairing or replacing the sidewalk yourself. Depending on the damage, your homeowner’s insurance may cover the cost of repairing or replacing your sidewalk before deciding to hire a contractor. Get several estimates. Make sure to understand what prep work is included and how much clean-up is required afterward.
Check references and ask for licenses before hiring a contractor.
If the damage is minor, you can fix it yourself with a ready-mix concrete patch, caulk, or concrete grout. Similarly, if the damage is extensive, you can grind down the raised edge. Your spending will depend on whether you use a grinder or rent one.
Safety hazards
While some communities do not have a formal program to repair concrete sidewalks, others use spot repairs. Spot repairs can be done by replacing sections or panels as needed. This method is used in about 15% of communities that do not have a formal program for sidewalk repairs. Some communities fund these repairs 100% of the time. While it is always best to avoid spot repairs whenever possible, they have certain risks.
Cracks that are over a quarter-inch wide are considered trip hazards by OSHA. Damages are considered trip hazards if they cause relative movement or vertical differential. They can be inward, outward, or up and down. Cracks can also be dangerous if they have crumbling damage or are displaced by shifting land. Ultimately, cracks and chips can be difficult for pedestrians and cause falls. If you’re considering crack repair for your concrete sidewalks, it’s best to hire a professional.
Requirements for repairs
When choosing a contractor for a concrete sidewalk repair, there are several factors to consider. Cracks less than half an inch are generally not a big deal. Repairing these slight imperfections will save you money compared to replacing the entire section of the sidewalk. Cracks more than half an inch often indicate a problem with the concrete mix. Crack repairs can be complicated if the crack is located at the subbase.
Cracks less than half an inch may be repaired by grinding or cutting.
However, these techniques can leave one or two panels with a cross slope greater than two percent. Furthermore, they may also leave warped transitions between panels. These repairs are not permanent, however. If they are not, they must be replaced with new concrete. Here are some tips on how to fix a cracked sidewalk. Listed below are some types of cracks that need to be repaired.