Replacing a sidewalk? Repair instead!
Are you a property manager considering replacing a sidewalk because of ADA compliance issues? The sidewalk experts at PCC has an idea for you. Why not repair it rather than replace it?
The usual course of action in dealing with a broken sidewalk is to replace it. And, you most likely are well versed in the ADA rules and how important it is for you to maintain compliance. In 1990, the US government passed the ADA, the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA protects the disabled by creating regulations holding property owners accountable for ensuring safe means of passage for disabled people.
Property owners and managers are responsible for ensuring ADA compliance, which means getting your sidewalks, walkways, ramps, stairs, and banisters fixed if they are damaged, break or fall out of compliance.
Its normal for sidewalks and walkways to fall out of ADA compliance due to common wear and tear, especially if its a high-traffic area. But, its how you handle the situation that could get you into trouble. Here is something to consider: in order to fall within ADA compliance, no one particular portion of the sidewalk can be raised higher than another by more than a quarter inch. This height differential is known as a “trip hazard”. Trip Hazards have to be dealt with relatively quickly or someone could get seriously injured. And, if so, any injuries or complications that result from a trip hazard would be the responsibility of the property owner. Therefore, if your walkways have trip hazards, it’s time to look into an affordable sidewalk repair solution.
In years past, the only option for sidewalk trip hazards was that the sidewalk needed to be completely removed and at a very expensive price point. But, PCC has a better option! We can completely repair the trip hazard, using an advanced cutting method that smoothes out the gap between the sidewalk tiles, creating a smooth transition that falls into ADA compliance. This costs far less than a total replacement and prevents costly pay-outs on ADA compliance issues. If your sidewalk or walkway is in need of repair, don’t wait until it’s too late and somebody gets hurt- call Precision Concrete Cutting today!