Common Reasons for Concrete Sidewalk Breakage in NYC

Many different people use the concrete sidewalks outside your house, including your neighbors, family, and friends. However, just like any other concrete structure, sidewalks can sustain damage. Cracking is one of the most frequent forms of damage and can lead to major issues.

Different factors, such as shifting soil or changing weather, can cause these cracks. A cracked sidewalk lowers the curb appeal of your home and increases the possibility of accidents for anyone utilizing the walkway. Using concrete for your sidewalks might be one of the best decisions, as it is one of the most durable materials for construction as compared to other materials like pavers, bricks, etc. Choose the right material for your sidewalk by taking into account aspects like visual appeal, durability, cost, and maintenance.

It is essential to find the root cause of the breakage in order to take prompt action. Employing a skilled professional like Brooklyn Sidewalk Repair Pros might be an efficient choice to resolve these issues. Experts have years of experience, knowledge, and proper licensing to provide reliable sidewalk repair services.

What is a cracked sidewalk?

A damaged sidewalk shows visible signs like gaps, lines, cracks, and separations in concrete. These gaps and cracks may vary in size, shape, and dimension. These cracks on your sidewalks not only look unpleasing but can also pose serious safety threats to pedestrians walking by.

The common types of concrete sidewalk damage

Let us discuss common sidewalk damage in detail, so you can easily identify these issues.

Poor Water Drainage

Soil erosion and water pooling can result from improper water drainage. The concrete structure must be completely replaced because the damage resulting from the drainage problem cannot be fixed. It is imperative to promptly address drainage problems to prevent significant harm to the entire sidewalk structure.

Cracks and Breaks

Concrete can expand and contract in the summer and winter. Cracks form when there is too much pressure applied to the concrete due to temperature fluctuations. These cracks may resemble alligator skin, be hairlines, deep, or shaped like spider webs. Ignoring these fractures may cause water to collect and may also cause surface potholes.

Potholes in the Sidewalk

Water damage, poor material quality, or aging are three main reasons why potholes may appear on the sidewalks of your property. Ignored potholes can eventually grow larger and pose a serious risk to pedestrian safety. For large holes in the concrete, it is also not a good option and requires a complete replacement.

Tree Root Growth

Trees close to sidewalks can also harm them. Do you want to know why? Tree roots grow upward to obtain the necessary nutrients and water when they do not receive enough from the soil. As they grow, they may cause surface cracks and other damage to the concrete. Fixing tree root damage is the responsibility of NYC Parks and you can contact them for professional repairs.

Uneven Sidewalks

Soil erosion and the freeze-thaw cycle are the two main causes of uneven concrete slabs. Water may seep through the sidewalks and reach the soil if they are cracked or have inadequate drainage. Excessive soil moisture during the winter can cause the slabs to freeze and rise above their typical level. In the same way, this water refreezes and breaks down soil compaction in the spring and summer, causing a sinking in both the soil and the concrete surface.

The primary causes of sidewalk damage

You might be surprised when you learn about the things that cause walkways to deteriorate. Some of them are given below.

• Tree roots
• Natural wear and tear of weather
• Inadequate maintenance
• Use of harsh chemicals
• Poor construction

Preventive steps to take if you have a damaged sidewalk

Here's what to do if you see damage to your sidewalk and want to restore it to its original condition. Evaluate the harm first. Keep an eye out for any fractures, uneven surfaces, or loose concrete pieces. If you're not sure how serious it is, get an evaluation from an expert concrete contractor in Brooklyn.

• In New York City, property owners are usually responsible for maintaining sidewalks; therefore, the cost will fall on you.
• Next, get a quote from a certified contractor. Remember, it's not all about the price. To prevent further damage, you must hire a professional concrete sidewalk repair contractor who will do the work thoroughly and use high-quality materials.
• Schedule the repair as soon as you've chosen a contractor. Remember that some repairs could take some time, particularly if you require city permission. As you watch the progress, be patient and maintain open communication with your contractor.
• Regular upkeep and inspections following the repair will keep your sidewalk in excellent condition and prevent further damage. Not only is a well-kept sidewalk visually appealing, but it also plays a vital role in public safety.

Give us a call right now if you need sidewalk repair assistance in Brooklyn, and we'll assist you every step of the way.

Conclusion

The concrete structures that pedestrians utilize the most are sidewalks. That is why it must always be kept tidy, secure, and operational. You have to keep the sidewalks outside your property in good condition. Your sidewalks can be properly maintained by hiring professionals, or you can do the inspection and upkeep yourself. Either way, it will be well worth your money. Therefore, get your sidewalks in compliance with city codes by finding the best sidewalk contractor in Brooklyn.