Did you know that sidewalk repair is one of the most overlooked aspects of property ownership? Realtors focus on marketable spaces like the backyard or lawn. Potential buyers see a rainbow of possibilities with paint, but rarely does anyone consider the sidewalk.
It’s often assumed that sidewalks are public property and, therefore, a municipality’s responsibility. While this is true in most cases, it isn’t true in all cases. Property owners can be held liable for damaged or uneven sidewalks if an accident occurs. That’s why it’s important to consider these four potential hazards to sidewalk safety and who to contact for sidewalk repairs.
Root Damage
Perhaps the most visible cause of sidewalk damage is from protruding roots of nearby landscaping.
Expanding roots systems can eventually cause cracks in sidewalks that lead to uneven or damaged concrete.
As a property owner, consider checking surrounding trees and shrubs at least once a year. This can help you get ahead of any potential sidewalk repairs and prevent slips or falls.
It’s also critical to keep landscaping neat and trimmed for sidewalk visibility. An overgrown shrub can block pedestrians and may not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Natural Disasters
In California, most soil is sandy, loamy, or claylike and often comprised of weathered rock and volcanic ash. Because of this, the ground surface is vulnerable to shifts that can cause damage to sidewalks.
Of course, no one can prevent a natural disaster or control weather changes, but property owners should know who to contact to repair a sidewalk damaged after inclement weather.
Concrete Stress
While concrete is durable, it has weight limits. Concrete used for sidewalks is different from the concrete used for flooring because it is assumed that sidewalks won’t be used as much as, for example, the floor of a high-rise building.
Over time, concrete stress can cause sidewalk cracking or sinking. Sidewalk sinking occurs when the concrete base is weakened, causing the sidewalk to become unstable and forcing the concrete to sink. This can happen because of vehicle weight or shifts in the ground.
Improper Sewer System Drainage
Septic system maintenance is one of the least glamorous parts of property ownership. But, proper sewer system drainage of any structure can prevent sidewalk damage. Improper drainage creates shifts in the ground surface over time, which will cause damage to nearby sidewalks.
You Can Do It Right, Or You Can Do It Over
Precision Concrete Cutting is your premier sidewalk repair and trip hazard removal service. With industry-leading technology and top-notch customer service, we are proud to serve the people of San Luis Obispo County, Santa Barbara County, Kern County, Ventura County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, Riverside County, and Orange County.
Contact us today for a free demonstration or sidewalk safety/repair assessment. With PCC, you can trust that we are a cost-effective solution that always exceeds ADA compliance. We’re looking forward to meeting you!