How wide should a concrete walkway be?

For residential walkways, a width of 3 to 4 feet is standard. This allows one person to walk comfortably or two people to walk side by side. Front entry walkways are often wider, around 4 to 5 feet, to create a more welcoming entrance. For wheelchair accessibility, a minimum width of 36 inches is required, but 48 inches or more is recommended for easier maneuvering. We help you determine the right width based on your needs and local building codes.

Can you install a walkway on a slope?

Yes, we can install concrete walkways on sloped terrain. For gentle slopes, we create a gradual incline that is easy to walk on and meets accessibility standards. For steeper slopes, we may recommend adding steps or terraced sections to make the path safer and more comfortable to use. Proper grading and drainage are critical on slopes to prevent water from pooling or washing away the base.

How do I prevent my walkway from cracking?

While it is impossible to prevent all cracking in concrete, proper installation techniques minimize the risk. We use a compacted gravel base, adequate reinforcement, and control joints to manage stress and movement. Sealing the concrete regularly also helps protect it from moisture penetration and freeze-thaw damage. If small cracks do appear, we can repair them quickly to prevent them from spreading and becoming a bigger problem.

Sidewalks, Walkways & Flatwork

Create safe, attractive pathways that connect your property and enhance your curb appeal.

Professional curved concrete walkway installation at residential property in Norwich, CT

Why Concrete Walkways Make Sense

Concrete walkways and sidewalks provide safe, stable paths for getting around your property. Unlike gravel or mulch paths that shift and scatter, concrete stays put and provides a firm, level surface that is easy to walk on and maintain. You do not have to worry about weeds growing through the cracks or edging materials falling apart over time.

Concrete is especially important for accessibility. If you or someone in your household uses a wheelchair, walker, or cane, a smooth concrete path makes movement much easier and safer. Concrete walkways also reduce slip and trip hazards compared to uneven stone pavers or deteriorating asphalt paths. With proper installation and a slip-resistant finish, concrete provides safe passage in all weather conditions.

Beyond function, concrete walkways add value and beauty to your property. A well-designed walkway creates visual flow from the street to your front door or from your back door to the patio. You can customize the shape, color, and texture to complement your landscaping and architecture. Whether you want a simple, straight path or a curved, decorative walkway, we can design and install the perfect solution for your property.

Types of Flatwork We Install

Front Entry Walkways

Your front walkway is one of the first things visitors see when they arrive at your home. A clean, well-built concrete walkway creates a welcoming entrance and sets the tone for your entire property. We design front walkways that are wide enough for comfortable passage, properly sloped for drainage, and finished with a texture that provides traction without being rough on the feet.

We can add decorative elements like borders, stamped patterns, or exposed aggregate to make your front walkway a standout feature. These details elevate the appearance of your home and show attention to quality and style. The investment in a beautiful front walkway pays off in increased curb appeal and property value.

Backyard and Garden Paths

Backyard walkways connect different areas of your outdoor living space, such as the patio, garden, shed, or pool. These paths make it easy to move around your yard without trampling grass or tracking mud into the house. We design backyard walkways to fit naturally into your landscaping, using curves and gentle transitions to create a relaxed, inviting feel.

Garden paths can be narrower and more informal than front walkways. We often use decorative finishes like stamped stone or colored concrete to blend with natural surroundings. These paths not only look great but also protect your plants and lawn from foot traffic damage.

Public Sidewalks and ADA-Compliant Installations

For commercial properties and public spaces, we install sidewalks that meet local building codes and ADA accessibility standards. This includes proper slope, width, detectable warning surfaces, and smooth transitions at curbs and intersections. We work with municipalities and property managers to ensure compliance with all regulations while delivering durable, long-lasting sidewalks.

Public sidewalks need to withstand heavy foot traffic, weather exposure, and the occasional impact from snow removal equipment. We use high-strength concrete mixes, proper reinforcement, and careful installation techniques to build sidewalks that serve the community for decades with minimal maintenance.

Design and Installation Best Practices

Building a quality concrete walkway or sidewalk requires attention to detail at every step. Here is what NWC Norwich Concrete does to ensure your flatwork stands the test of time:

Proper grading and base preparation to prevent settling and cracking
Adequate thickness for the intended use and soil conditions
Reinforcement with steel or fiber to control cracking
Correct slope for water drainage away from buildings and structures
Strategic placement of control joints to manage concrete movement
Slip-resistant finishes for safety in wet conditions
Smooth edges and transitions to eliminate trip hazards

We also consider the visual impact of your walkway. We work with you to choose the right width, layout, and finish to complement your property. Whether you want a simple broom finish for a clean, modern look or a decorative stamped pattern that mimics natural stone, we have the skills and experience to deliver the results you want.

After installation, we provide guidance on maintenance and care. Concrete walkways need very little upkeep, but occasional cleaning and resealing can extend their life and keep them looking great. We recommend sealing your walkway every few years to protect against stains, moisture damage, and surface wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Install a Beautiful Walkway

Ready to add safe, attractive concrete walkways to your property? Contact NWC Norwich Concrete for a free consultation and quote. We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Norwich, CT and surrounding communities.