Concrete Sidewalks & Walkways

Why Walkways Matter More Than You Think

Your walkways are the first thing visitors see and the path your family uses every single day. A well-designed concrete walkway isn't just about getting from point A to point B. It's about safety, accessibility, and making your property look finished and well-maintained.

Cracked, uneven sidewalks are more than an eyesore. They're a tripping hazard and a liability. Water can pool in low spots, creating ice patches in winter. Tree roots can push sections up over time. When we install concrete walkways in Merrillville, we address all these issues from the ground up so your pathways stay safe and level for decades.

What Goes Into a Quality Walkway

The difference between a sidewalk that lasts 10 years and one that lasts 40 years comes down to proper installation. Here's what we do on every project:

• Tree Root Management: We assess nearby trees and install root barriers when needed to prevent future heaving.
• Proper Slope: Walkways need a slight grade (about 1/8 inch per foot) to shed water without being noticeable when walking.
• Expansion Joints: These allow concrete to expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking.
• Consistent Width: Most walkways are 3-4 feet wide, enough for two people to walk comfortably side by side.
• Smooth Finish: We use a broom finish that provides traction without being rough on bare feet in summer.

We also consider accessibility. If you or a family member uses a wheelchair or walker, we make sure slopes meet ADA guidelines and transitions are smooth. And if you want something more decorative than plain gray concrete, check out our stamped and decorative concrete options that can mimic stone, brick, or custom patterns.

Municipal Sidewalk Requirements

Many areas around Merrillville have specific requirements for sidewalks adjacent to public streets. Before we start any project, we check local codes to make sure your new walkway meets all specifications for width, setback, and drainage. This prevents problems down the road and ensures you won't have issues if you ever sell your home.

Some neighborhoods also have HOA requirements about walkway appearance. We've worked with dozens of homeowners associations in the area and know what they typically approve. We'll help you navigate these requirements so your project stays on track.

Connecting Your Outdoor Spaces

Walkways aren't just about getting to your front door. Many homeowners use concrete paths to connect different areas of their property. A walkway from your back door to a concrete patio creates a clean transition. Paths through gardens keep feet dry and protect plants. A walkway to your garage side door makes carrying groceries easier.

We help you think through traffic patterns on your property. Where do people actually walk? Where do they cut corners across the grass? Building walkways where people naturally want to walk means they'll actually use them. We've seen plenty of situations where previous walkways failed because they weren't placed logically.

Replacing Existing Sidewalks

If you're replacing an old sidewalk, we don't just pour over the top. We remove the damaged concrete completely, address any drainage or root issues that caused the original problems, and build a proper base before pouring new concrete. This costs a bit more upfront but saves you from repeating the same problems in a few years.

Most sidewalk replacement projects take 1-2 days plus curing time. You'll need to avoid walking on the new concrete for at least 24-48 hours, and we recommend staying off it completely for 7 days to ensure proper strength. We'll mark off the area and provide temporary access paths if needed.

Common Questions About Concrete Walkways