Manhattan, the heart of New York City, boasts its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and a rich tapestry of urban life. Geographically, Manhattan is the smallest and most densely populated of the five boroughs of New York City.
Being the most densely populated area in New York, Manhattan has some of the busiest sidewalks which are subjected to a lot of wear and tear. Over time this condition may get worse and the sidewalk may need a complete replacement to be fully restored.
According to the law in Manhattan, if you are a property owner, you are responsible for the repair and maintenance of the sidewalk in front of your property and if you don’t repair or replace the damaged sidewalk within a specified time frame then the DOT will have the sidewalk repaired and the bill will be mailed to you.
Are your sidewalks also cracked, damaged, and uneven? Then it’s time to have a professional sidewalk replacement from Manhattan Sidewalk Replacement. Our certified experts are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality services with the best quality materials.
Most of the time you will see people trying to repair their damaged sidewalks on their own to save some pennies trying some DIY tricks to fix their walks. These tricks might be of little help sometimes if the damage is relatively small, but most of the time they are to no avail and even exaggerate the problem.
When it comes to something as important as sidewalk repair and replacement it’s better to leave the matter in the hands of trusted experts who have the required experience. DIY repair techniques might be cost effective but they have great risks associated with them. Some problems that can occur due to the use of GIY techniques are
Due to the relentless challenges faced by Manhattan sidewalks, their replacement becomes necessary. These challenges include harsh weather conditions, freeze and thaw, ceaseless shuffle of millions of pedestrians, and soil settlement. These may result in cracks and uneven sidewalk surfaces causing trip hazards and other serious injuries to pedestrians.
If there are one or two thin cracks then they can be repaired with a sealant, but if the crack or hole width is more than ½ inch, it is sign that the crack penetrates deep into the sidewalk and the only solution to fix it is the complete replacement of the sidewalk.
If there are trees close enough to your sidewalk then their roots can cause major problems. Tree roots expand to a significant area under the soil and some roots can grow out of the ground. If there’s a sidewalk nearby then the upward growing root can cause significant damage to the sidewalk that may need a complete replacement.
The average age of a sidewalk lies between 20 to 30 years. After this period has passed there is a need to replace it with a new one to avoid any accidents caused by its accidental collapse.
Contrary to what you might be thinking the sidewalk replacement process does not start at once. A great deal of planning is done before the project is started. The planning phase begins with defining the purpose of the sidewalk. Its location is studied in detail and all the relevant laws of the local authority are studied in advance so that the project can be executed seamlessly. Other factors that are taken into consideration in the designing phase is the traffic volume, drainage, and the surrounding landscape. Once all the data is taken from the site and detailed plan is prepared that includes the dimensions, materials to be used and the value of slope to be maintained.
Before any type of construction work is started the site is cleared. It includes removing dirt and debris or obstacles from the side and placing no-go area signs. The dimensions of the sidewalks are marked using string lines or wooden scales.
A deep cut is made into the segment of the sidewalk to be replaced with the help of an angle grinder or any other cutting tool. After the boundaries are marked a jackhammer is used to break the marked segment of the sidewalk. Large chunks of broken concrete are then removed from the site whereas small concrete chunks could be left out that can act as the sub-base for the new sidewalk.
After the excavation is completed, the excavated area is installed with the required formwork that defines the shape of the sidewalk and its dimensions. Special care is taken to ensure that the formwork is fitted properly so that it can withstand the weight of the poured concrete and prevent any leakage.
A concrete mix is prepared as defined in the plans with the desired ratio of cement, sand, aggregates, and water. After preparing the mix it is poured into the formwork instantly to prevent it from becoming harder. Continuous spreading of concrete is done to prevent it from hardening in one place. Using a float level, the required slope is provided at the surface.
After pouring is done the finishing work is started instantly. A trowel is used to level the sidewalk surface, giving it a smooth and shiny finish. If further details are to be added on the surface then it is also done in the finishing phase. Furthermore, expansion joints may also be added to prevent thermal cracking of the sidewalk.
One of the most important steps that a common person may ignore but is very crucial for the longevity of the newly constructed sidewalk is the curing of concrete. Curing means the proper covering of the newly constructed sidewalk with water after it has hardened. The reason behind this is that concrete requires water to gain strength and if proper curing of concrete is not done then it may not develop the desired strength and the chances of cracking increase significantly.
This may be an optional choice but if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions like snowfall or extreme heat then applying sealant may be a good option to consider as it considerably increases the lifespan of the sidewalk.
After all work has finished a final inspection of the site is done by professionals to ensure that everything has been executed according to plan and if there are any other necessary adjustments to be made then it can also be done in proper time.
Before starting any kind of repair or replacement work on your sidewalk you need to obtain a permit from the New York Department of Transportation (DOT). You can apply for the permit online or by mail.
Once you have obtained the permit you can hire a licensed contractor to do your required job.
Being the leading sidewalk installation & replacement company in Manhattan our reputation speaks for itself. With a large portfolio of successful projects and satisfied customers, we are the best in the business. Our team of qualified and certified installers we are committed to providing our customers with the best services. Perks of our services include
A1: Yes, sidewalk replacement in Manhattan often requires a permit. The specific requirements and application process can vary depending on your location within the city. It’s essential to check with your local authorities or a professional contractor to determine the exact permit requirements for your project.
A2: The duration of the sidewalk replacement process can vary based on factors like the size of the project, weather conditions, and the chosen materials. On average, it may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks for the entire process, including preparation, demolition, and construction.
A3: The most common materials used for sidewalk replacement in Manhattan include concrete, asphalt, and pavers. Concrete is a durable and versatile option, while asphalt is more cost-effective. Pavers offer a customizable and visually appealing choice. The selection depends on your specific needs and preferences.
A4: To find a reputable contractor, start by asking for recommendations from neighbors, friends, or local business owners who have had similar work done. Check online reviews and references. Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced in sidewalk replacement projects.
A5: The cost of sidewalk replacement can vary widely based on factors such as the material chosen, the size of the project, labor costs, permits, and any unforeseen challenges. It’s best to request quotes from multiple contractors to get an accurate estimate for your specific project.
A6: Maintaining your newly replaced sidewalk is essential for its longevity. Regularly sweep away debris, address minor cracks or damage promptly, and consider applying sealants to protect against moisture and staining. Routine maintenance can extend the lifespan of your sidewalk.
Sidewalk replacement can be a headache if not done properly, so make sure to hired certified experts for your sidewalk replacement job. At Manhattan Sidewalk Replacement our experts delve into the details of your sidewalk problems to provide you with the best possible solutions. Contact us today for consultation and let our experienced team guide you through the process.