Concrete sidewalk thickness and slope
robbyve
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
Hello guys, I saw different opinions about how thick a concrete sidewalk should be.
The one I will make it’s only for people walking on and no vehicles would run on it.
So, some say 3 1/2 inch thickness is fine. Some others say it has to be at least 4 inches. What do you suggest?
Also, as you can see from the picture, there’s a slope. 11 inches of difference where the sidewalk would end. Would you go straight (if yes any suggestions how to hold the soil on the slope higher side), or would you make the sidewalk following the slope?
I always get great tips from you. Thank you in advance.
Replies
I've never seen a so-called 4" slab that was not formed with 2x4s. 4" is nominal. Follow the slope, but use a broom finish so it's not too slippery
Thank you very much!
Being from NW. Oh…….
I might be thinking stepping down the grade.
Ice here in the winter sucks.
Thank you Calvin.
minimum slope for a handicap ramp is one foot per 12 feet. 8.33%
If your sidewalk is over 11 feet long it should be ok.
Less slope is better for walking on ice.
But runoff is good as well.
The short way, put some slope on the sidewalk to let water run off.
2% is considered a minimum
If you plan to run the sidewalk to the door on the right, plan in some slope away from the door. no need to let water puddle there or follow the sidewalk into your door.
So pitch the sidewalk so it runs uphill a bit at that end.
Likely a bit of a compound slope to get the water to drain the way you want.
Thank you! The sidewalk is going to be 18 ft long. The door is very high from the ground. I built a stoop and it would need 3 steps to reach the stoop.
For a pedestrian sidewalk without vehicular traffic, a thickness of 3 1/2 inches is generally acceptable but opting for 4 inches enhances durability. The slope can be addressed by either following its natural contour with soil retention measures or cutting into the slope for a straight sidewalk, necessitating erosion control. Drainage planning is crucial in both scenarios. Consider consulting a local contractor or engineer for site-specific advice, factoring in soil conditions, freeze-thaw cycles, and aesthetic preferences to ensure a stable, long-lasting sidewalk suitable for foot traffic.
Thank you very much!
I'd suggest going with at least 4 inches for the sidewalk thickness to be safe. As for the slope, it might be easier to follow the natural slope if you can. To hold the soil, you could use retaining walls or plant some shrubs or grasses that can help prevent erosion. It really depends on your budget and how much work you want to put into it.
Thank you so much!
For a sidewalk just for walking, 3 1/2 inches should be okay, but 4 inches would be safer. If the slope is steep, following it might be easier, but if you go straight, you could use retaining walls or plants to hold the soil. Consider drainage too.
Thanks a lot!