The New York government has stated that the curbs of sidewalks are also a part of your property. In other words, you are in charge of repairing, fixing, and replacing the curbs. Many things can damage the curbs, such as high temperatures, tree roots, and cars hitting them. According to DOT rules, you need to fix them.
We will discuss the importance of sidewalk curb repair and the causes of damage in this blog.
Importance Of Sidewalk Curb Repair
A well-maintained curb is important because it ensures a smooth transition between the sidewalk and the road. Moreover, repairing your curbs on time can minimize the risk of trip hazards and possible accidents. Let’s discuss in detail:
Pedestrian Safety
Keeping your sidewalk curb in good shape can protect children, elderly, and people with disabilities staying within the limits of sidewalks. The presence of a curb is important as it defines a physical boundary to keep people on the walking path. Curbs keep the vehicles from getting into the sidewalks.
Prevent Further Damage
Ignoring cracked curbs can lead to further damages and costly repairs. Fixing cracks and potholes in the early stage will cost less. This will help you save money, time, and energy.
Proper Water Drainage
In rainy weather, the water is more likely to flow to the roads. If there are gaps between the curbs, during the wet season, the roads will flood. Maintaining your curbs is important so that water can flow properly to the gutters.
Smooth Mobility Of Wheelchairs
The presence of a curb is important because the wheels of a stroller or a wheelchair are more likely to slide toward the road. Maintaining the integrity and structure of the sidewalk curb allows a smooth transition for people with crutches or other mobility devices.
Increase In Property Value
The curbs, like other parts of the building, affect how much people want to buy your home. Curbs that are well-kept or fixed are very important if you want your home, building, or place of business to have important value.
Increase In Curb Appeal
The broken and cracked curbs detract aesthetic appeal from your property. Curbs with gaps, potholes, and cracks reduce your property value. It is important to keep them neat and clean to attract potential buyers.
Causes of Sidewalk Curb Damage
Following are the factors that contribute to sidewalk curb damage:
Soil Erosion
Overtime curbs can show signs of wear and tear, cracks, and potholes due to extreme weather conditions and many other things. This can damage the surface and structure of a sidewalk curb.
Tree Roots
The immense growth of tree roots can lift the surface of the curb. These roots can also cause soil movement and cracks. To learn more about this, read our guide on dealing with tree root damages.
Extreme Weather Conditions
New York summers are scorching hot and dry, causing cracks to spread across the curbside concrete. The harsh weather conditions in winter, with their cycles of freezing and thawing, further damage the concrete's edges.
Ways to Fix Your Sidewalk Curbs
You can fix your small cracks and gaps on your own but for deep cracks and severe damage, hiring a sidewalk contractor is imperative.
Fix Small Problems
Assessing the condition of the damage is important before taking any action. Gaps or cracks in your curbs need to be fixed as soon as possible. Repairs not done properly can lead to more big problems.
Use Good Materials
The materials that are used to fix the curbs need to be very good. The cement you use must be PS-4000. You also need to get popping tools and equipment.
Always Seek Professional Services
Doing it yourself can help if the damage is small. But if you do not know how to fix the curbs, you might make the damage worse. In this case, a skilled contractor is helpful. Getting the curbs fixed by them will help you in the long run.
Conclusion
As a resident of New York, it is your job to fix the curbs on the sidewalks. This will not only keep your property looking nice and in good shape, but it will also keep the people who walk on your streets safe.