Walkways, Steps & Pathways

Concrete walkways last 30-50 years with proper installation and minimal maintenance. This far exceeds pavers (15-20 years before major releveling) and wood pathways (10-15 years before rot). Longevity depends on proper base preparation, adequate thickness, control joints, and drainage. Regular sealing every 2-3 years protects against weather damage and extends lifespan.

Residential walkways should be minimum 36 inches wide for single-file traffic and 48-60 inches for comfortable side-by-side walking. Main entry paths to front doors should be 48-60 inches to create welcoming approaches. Garden paths can be narrower at 30-36 inches for casual exploration. Proper width ensures safe, functional traffic flow.

Broom finish is best for budget and traction. Exposed aggregate offers excellent slip resistance and hides dirt. Stamped concrete provides decorative stone or brick appearance. All provide safe, textured surfaces. Avoid smooth finishes on outdoor walkways as they become dangerously slippery when wet, especially in Pacific Northwest weather.

Standard residential walkways should be 4 inches thick with compacted gravel base. This thickness handles foot traffic and light equipment. Areas crossing driveways or seeing occasional vehicle traffic need 5-6 inches with steel reinforcement. Proper thickness prevents cracking and settling over time.

Concrete walkways are more durable and low-maintenance than pavers. Concrete lasts 30-50 years without shifting or settling, while pavers require frequent releveling and weed removal. Concrete resists weeds, eliminates tripping hazards from shifted pavers, and costs less long-term. However, individual paver replacement is easier than concrete repairs.

All concrete can develop minor cracks over time due to ground movement and temperature changes. However, proper installation minimizes cracking. We use control joints every 4-6 feet to control where cracks occur, adequate thickness (4 inches), steel reinforcement, proper base preparation, and correct drainage to prevent most problems.

Concrete walkway costs vary based on size, site conditions, and finish selection. Standard broom finish is most economical, while decorative options like stamped or exposed aggregate cost more. Factors include excavation needs, base preparation, thickness, and accessibility. We provide free estimates with transparent pricing for your specific project.

Concrete walkways need minimal maintenance. Sweep regularly and rinse with hose to remove debris. Reseal every 2-3 years to protect against stains and weather damage. Avoid deicing salts in winter (use sand instead) and promptly clean spills. Remove weeds from control joints. This simple care keeps walkways beautiful for decades.

Walkways should have minimum 2% slope (1/4 inch per foot) to ensure proper drainage. Slope should direct water away from buildings and toward appropriate drainage areas. Steeper slopes may require steps for safety. Proper grading prevents water pooling, ice formation, and foundation issues while maintaining comfortable walking surfaces.

Concrete steps require footings below frost line, proper rise (7 inches maximum) and run (11 inches minimum) for comfortable climbing, steel reinforcement, and non-slip finishes. Steps must meet local building codes. We create forms, pour reinforced concrete, and apply textured finishes for safety. Proper construction ensures decades of safe use.