Safe, attractive walkways that connect your property and enhance curb appeal.
Walkways do more than get you from point A to point B. They guide visitors to your door, connect different areas of your property, and add visual interest to your landscaping. Good walkways are level, properly drained, and wide enough for comfortable use. They should look intentional, not like an afterthought. Whether you need a simple path from your driveway to your front door or an elaborate network of garden walkways, we build concrete flatwork that improves both function and appearance.
Flatwork is the term we use for any concrete surface that lies flat and level. This includes a wide range of residential and commercial applications.
Your main walkway to the front door should be at least 4 feet wide so two people can walk side by side comfortably. Secondary garden paths can be narrower, around 3 feet. The route should follow natural traffic patterns and avoid forcing awkward turns. We help you plan a layout that makes sense for how you actually use your property.
All walkways need slight slope for water runoff. Standing water on your walkway leads to ice in winter and faster deterioration year-round. We grade walkways with just enough pitch to shed water without feeling like you are walking uphill. This attention to drainage is the same whether we are installing a driveway or a small garden path.
A smooth finish looks nice but can be slippery when wet. We typically use a broom finish on walkways to create subtle texture that provides grip. For pool decks and other areas where water is common, we can add more aggressive texture or use exposed aggregate for better traction. Your safety matters more than appearance, but you can have both.
Walkway installation follows the same quality standards as our patio and driveway work. We start by marking the layout and getting your approval on the route and width. Then we excavate to proper depth, usually 6 to 8 inches, to allow room for base material and concrete.
Next comes the compacted gravel base. This layer prevents settling and provides drainage. We install forms to contain the concrete and create clean edges. After pouring the concrete, we finish the surface to your chosen texture and cut control joints to manage any future cracking.
For decorative walkways, we can add color, stamped patterns, or borders to complement your landscaping. The same techniques we use for stamped decorative concrete work perfectly for creating distinctive walkways that stand out from standard gray concrete.
Concrete walkways need minimal maintenance but some care extends their life. Sweep regularly to remove dirt and debris. Rinse with a hose or pressure washer once or twice a year. Seal the surface every 2 to 3 years to prevent water absorption and make cleaning easier.
Avoid using metal shovels for snow removal as they can chip the surface. Use plastic shovels or snow blowers instead. Do not apply salt or harsh deicers, which damage concrete over time. Sand or kitty litter provides traction without chemical damage. If you notice cracks developing or sections settling, contact us before the problem spreads.
