How to Replace a Sidewalk
Sidewalks break down over time due to wear and tear, and as they expand and contract due to changes in the weather. If you are ready for your next sidewalk replacement, the steps below will help you achieve a long lasting result that you can be proud of. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Demolish and remove the existing sidewalk to make room for the replacement.
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Dig down far enough to lay a 4 inch layer of gravel, followed by a 2 inch layer of sand and a minimum of a 4 inch layer of concrete.
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Line the trench with inexpensive hardboard to create the edges for your sidewalk.
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Make sure the bottom of the trench is level and lay the 4 inches of gravel. Lay the sand on top of it, water lightly and tamp tightly with either a compactor or a flat board nailed to a 2 by 4.
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Pour your concrete and use a float to work it level by pulling a spare 2 by 4 across the hardboard. This will pull the concrete into areas and create a level surface.
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Trowel the concrete smooth. Be sure not to overwork the concrete as this point, as it will weaken the end result of your walkway.
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Broom over the top of the concrete to create a surface that is not dangerously slick.
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Tips & Warnings
It is helpful to have helpers if your sidewalk is of any length. Sidewalk replacement is more than one person can usually handle.
There are a variety of staining and stamping techniques that you can apply to your concrete before it dries to create unusual and decorative finishes.
