Improve Safety & Curb Appeal
Uneven sidewalks are more than just an eyesore—they are a liability. Tree roots, settling soil, and freeze-thaw cycles can cause concrete slabs to lift or sink, creating dangerous trip hazards. Many cities in Northeast Ohio issue citations to homeowners for unsafe public sidewalks.
Gaetano Cement Contractors specializes in correcting these issues. We remove the old, damaged concrete, address the underlying root or soil problems, and pour fresh, level walkways that meet all local municipal codes and ADA requirements.
Custom Garden Walkways
Beyond the standard city sidewalk, we design custom walkways that enhance your landscaping. Whether you want a winding path to your backyard patio or a grand entrance to your front door, we can shape the concrete to flow naturally with your property.
Installation Standards
We apply the same engineering rigor to a 4-foot sidewalk as we do a driveway. Here are the specifications we use to ensure longevity:
| Component | Gaetano Specification |
|---|---|
| Concrete Mix | 4000+ PSI Exterior Mix |
| Standard Width | 36" - 48" (or custom) |
| Thickness | 4" Standard / 6" at Aprons |
| Finish | Non-Slip Broom Finish or Stamped |
| Control Joints | Cut every 4-5 feet to prevent cracking |
The Installation Process
- 1. Site Prep: We tear out the old concrete and excavate to the proper depth, removing sod and roots that caused the initial heave.
- 2. Base & Forms: We install a compacted gravel base for drainage and set forms to ensure proper slope for water runoff.
- 3. The Pour: We pour the high-strength concrete, screed it flat, and bull float the surface.
- 4. Finishing: We edge the sides for a clean look, broom the surface for safety, and cut control joints to manage expansion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to replace my sidewalk?
If it is the "public" sidewalk near the street, yes. Most cities require a permit and inspection. We handle the permitting process for you to ensure everything is up to code.
Can you curve the walkway to my front door?
Absolutely. We use flexible forms to create smooth, organic curves that look much more elegant than sharp 90-degree angles.
How do you prevent tree roots from lifting it again?
During excavation, we cut back problematic surface roots. In severe cases, we can install root barriers or adjust the grade of the walkway to bridge over the root zone safely.