How to Make a Concrete Side Walk

Many urban municipalities require homeowners to maintain sidewalks along the edge of their property between the house and road. This is to ensure people have a place to walk away from traffic. Many of these municipalities require the homeowner to maintain the sidewalk as well, which can include replacing it when it begins to crumble. Because of this it is useful to know how to make a concrete sidewalk.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-4 lumber
• Measuring tape
• Ruler
• Lawnmower
• Trowel
• Broom
• Edging tool
• Hammer
• Nails

Instructions

1. Determine the size and shape of the sidewalk. Measure the length and width of the concrete sidewalk with the measuring tape. This will help determine how much cement mix you will need.

2. Determine how high you want the concrete sidewalk. A quick way to do this is to use the height of the grass around the area as a guide. Cut the grass to normal height for your lawn. Measure the height of the grass with a small ruler. Make the sidewalks 3 inches or higher.

3. Build the frame for the concrete sidewalk. Use the 2-by-4 lumber to create the frame. Use the inside diameter of the frame for the sidewalk measurements because the frame will be sitting outside of the sidewalk.

4. Order the amount of concrete needed for the job. Calculate the amount by multiplying the height by the length by the width of the sidewalk. This will give you the total amount of feet needed. Pour the concrete into the frame evenly.

5. Use the 2-by-4 lumber as a straight edge to level the top of the concrete sidewalk. Set the 2-inch edge face down to the concrete. Have two persons move the board in a back-and-forth motion while also moving along the length of the frame from one end to the other. Proceed with a steady and slow pace to properly distribute the concrete over the entire work area.

6. Use the trowel to smooth the surface of the sidewalk. This will give the sidewalk an even finish. Use the broom in a sweeping motion across the width of the concrete sidewalk to create a non-slippery surface. Use the edging tool to create the rounded edges of the walkway to help prevent chipping and cracking.

7. Lay the thin wire mesh over the concrete while it is still drying. This adds strength to the concrete and reduces cracks. Set the wire so it lays in the concrete but do not force it down further. The concrete will overlap and cover it as the sidewalk settles and dries.

References

• Concretenetwork: Building a Walkway