DIY Guide to Replacing Your Sidewalk: Tips from the Pros at Ascent Concrete Solutions

DIY Guide to Replacing Your Sidewalk: Tips from the Pros at Ascent Concrete Solutions

Ready to tackle your own sidewalk replacement project? At Ascent Concrete Solutions, we’re all about helping DIYers get it right the first time—whether you’re working in Lorain, Elyria, Sheffield Lake or nearby towns. With the right tools and knowledge, you can replace that cracked and worn-out sidewalk yourself. Of course, if you’re looking to skip the hassle, you can always call the experts. But if you’re up for the challenge, here’s how to do it like the pros!

Step-by-Step Process for DIY Sidewalk Replacement

1. Get Your Permits

Before you even touch a sledgehammer, make sure you’ve checked with your local city officials. In most cases, a permit is required, especially if the sidewalk is near public property. As Keith O’Berg Sr., the undisputed leader of Ascent Concrete Solutions, says, “Getting the paperwork in order is the first step to doing it right.”

2. Demolition Time

Use a sledgehammer or jackhammer to break up the old concrete. Be safe and wear proper protective gear! Remove the debris using a shovel and wheelbarrow. It’s tough work, but with some elbow grease, you’ll clear it out in no time.

“Make sure you clear out all the debris and prepare the ground properly before you start the new pour,” adds Keith O’Berg Jr., Lead Project Manager at Ascent. “A solid base is everything!”

3. Prepare the Ground

Next, excavate the area to a depth of 6-8 inches. Lay down a solid foundation of gravel or crushed stone and compact it to create a sturdy base. This will help your new sidewalk stand the test of time, especially during the freezing winters in Lorain County & northern Ohio.

4. Set Your Forms

Use wooden forms to shape the sidewalk. Secure them with stakes, ensuring everything is level. Give it a slight slope (about ¼ inch per foot) for drainage. Proper setup here means less work later.

5. Reinforce It

For added strength, lay down rebar or wire mesh before you pour the concrete. This is a key step in ensuring your sidewalk doesn’t crack easily over time. As Keith Sr. reminds us, “Reinforcing your sidewalk is like giving it armor—it’ll help it last for years without issues.”

6. Mix, Pour, and Screed

Mix your concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or consider ordering pre-mixed concrete for larger jobs. Pour it into the forms, ensuring an even spread. Use a screed to level off the surface and smooth it out.

“Patience is key here,” says Keith Jr. “Rushing the pour will leave you with uneven results. Take your time to make sure everything is smooth and level.”

7. Smooth and Shape

After screeding, use a trowel to smooth the surface and create clean edges. Use a broom finish for texture if you want slip resistance. You’ll also need to cut in control joints every 4-6 feet to allow for expansion and prevent random cracking.

8. Curing Time

Allow the concrete to cure for at least 48 hours. Cover the sidewalk with plastic sheeting to protect it and keep it moist while it sets. This step is especially important during Ohio’s cooler fall months when concrete tends to cure more slowly.

9. Final Touches

Once the concrete is set and cured, remove the forms and clean up the area. If you want added protection, consider applying a concrete sealer after the full cure (usually after a week).

Don’t Want the Hassle? Call the Pros!

While DIY can be rewarding, concrete work is hard labor, and sometimes, it’s better to let the pros handle it. As Keith O’Berg Sr. says, “If you’re looking for a flawless finish without the sweat, we’re here to help.”

At Ascent Concrete Solutions, we specialize in sidewalk replacements, driveway installations, and stamped concrete patios. If you’re in Lorain, Elyria, or Sheffield Lake, we’re just a phone call away for everyone in and around Lorain County.

Need a quote? Call or text Keith at (440) 320-6584 to set up a free, zero-obligation consultation today! Whether you want to DIY or leave it to the pros, we’re here to ensure your concrete project is a success.

By following these steps, you can successfully replace your sidewalk and have it last for years to come. But if the work seems overwhelming, don’t hesitate to call in the experts at Ascent Concrete Solutions!