Sidewalks, Walkways & Flatwork
Professional concrete walkways and flatwork that enhance safety and curb appeal.
Concrete sidewalks and walkways provide safe, attractive paths around your property. Whether you need a simple path from your driveway to your front door or an elaborate network of walkways through your landscaping, we install concrete that handles daily foot traffic while complementing your property's style. Properly installed walkways last for decades with minimal maintenance.
Types of Concrete Flatwork We Install
Flatwork refers to any horizontal concrete surface. While people often think of flatwork as just sidewalks, it actually includes many different applications around residential and commercial properties.
Sidewalks and Public Walkways
Public sidewalks connect properties to streets and provide pedestrian access throughout neighborhoods. We install sidewalks that meet local code requirements for width, thickness, and accessibility. Residential sidewalks typically run from the street to your front entrance, creating a welcoming path for visitors. These need to be durable enough for constant foot traffic and weather exposure.
Decorative Walkways
Garden paths, stepping stone walkways, and decorative routes through landscaping add character to your property. These can be simple concrete or dressed up with stamped patterns and colors. Curved walkways create visual interest and guide people through your outdoor spaces. We can design walkways that complement your landscaping and architectural style.
Entrance Walks and Steps
The walkway leading to your front door makes a strong first impression. We create entrance walks that are wide enough for comfortable access and designed with proper slope for drainage. When steps are needed, we build them with correct rise and run dimensions for safe, easy use. Integrated lighting or decorative elements can make entrance walks even more appealing.
Utility Walkways and Access Paths
Practical paths to sheds, gates, or around the side of your house prevent muddy tracks and make access easier year-round. These utilitarian walkways do not need fancy finishes but should be properly constructed for longevity. A simple broom finish provides good traction and easy maintenance.
Commercial Flatwork
Businesses need sidewalks that handle heavy foot traffic and meet ADA accessibility requirements. We install commercial walkways with proper grade, detectable warning surfaces at curbs, and durable finishes. Loading areas, equipment pads, and other commercial flatwork receive the same attention to quality and code compliance.
Planning Your Walkway Layout
Good walkway design considers function, aesthetics, and long-term performance. The path should make sense, taking you where you need to go by the most logical route. Avoid sharp turns or unnecessarily long paths that people will shortcut across the grass. A slightly wider path feels more welcoming and accommodates two people walking side by side.
Width matters for both function and appearance. A standard sidewalk is typically 4 feet wide, which allows comfortable single-file traffic. For main entrances or high-traffic areas, 5 to 6 feet works better. Garden paths can be narrower, around 3 feet, but consider what you will be carrying or pushing along them. Wheelbarrows and lawn equipment need adequate width.
The route should work with your landscaping rather than against it. Avoid areas where tree roots will cause future problems. Plan for drainage so water does not pool on or erode under your walkway. A slight slope away from buildings prevents water from running toward foundations. We can help you evaluate your property and design walkways that look great and function well.
How We Install Quality Walkways
Like all our concrete work, walkway installation starts with thorough preparation. We excavate to the proper depth, removing sod and soil as needed. The excavation depth depends on the thickness of concrete plus base material. For most walkways, we recommend 4 inches of concrete over a 4-inch compacted gravel base.
The base layer provides stable support and helps with drainage. We compact the gravel thoroughly using mechanical compactors to eliminate soft spots. Then we set forms along the edges to define the walkway shape and ensure correct thickness. Forms also help us create the proper slope for water runoff.
For longer walkways, we install reinforcement like wire mesh or fiber reinforcement in the concrete mix. This helps prevent cracks from spreading. Control joints are placed at regular intervals, typically every 4 to 5 feet, to manage where cracks form. After placing the concrete, we finish it with your chosen texture. A broom finish provides good traction for walking surfaces.
Expansion joints where the walkway meets other structures allow for movement without cracking. We apply curing methods to ensure the concrete develops full strength. After proper curing time, your walkway is ready for use. The result is a durable surface that enhances your property and serves you well for decades.
Finish Options for Walkways
The surface finish affects both appearance and safety. Here are the most popular options:
- Broom Finish: The most common choice, providing excellent traction and easy maintenance
- Smooth Troweled: Creates a sleek look but can be slippery when wet
- Exposed Aggregate: Shows decorative stones in the mix with great slip resistance
- Stamped Patterns: Mimics stone, brick, or tile for an upscale appearance
- Colored Concrete: Adds visual interest and complements your home's exterior
- Borders and Bands: Contrasting edges or accent strips create definition
For properties with existing concrete, we can match finishes to create a cohesive look. Or you might choose to upgrade all your concrete work at once. A new driveway paired with matching walkways creates a polished, well-maintained appearance.
Maintaining Your Concrete Walkways
Concrete walkways need minimal maintenance but benefit from basic care. Keep them clean by sweeping or hosing off dirt and debris regularly. This prevents staining and makes the surface last longer. Remove weeds or grass that grows along edges before roots work their way under the concrete.
Seal your walkways every few years to protect against moisture, stains, and surface wear. Sealer is especially important for decorative finishes like stamped or colored concrete. In winter, avoid using deicing chemicals that can damage the surface. Sand provides traction without harming the concrete.
Watch for small cracks and have them filled promptly. Small repairs are inexpensive, but cracks grow larger if ignored. If you notice settling or drainage issues, contact us for an evaluation. Our repair services can address problems before they become major headaches. With basic maintenance, your walkways will look great and function perfectly for many years.