How to Replace a Segment of Sidewalk (DIY Sidewalk Repair Using Concrete Bags)

🛠 Tools and Materials Used: https://amzn.to/42Rhsvk
🧰 RapidSet Concrete Used: https://www.ctscement.com/product/cts-24-6-concrete-mix
⚙️ Mud Mixer Information: https://www.mudmixer.com/andrew

Learn how to replace a segment of sidewalk with this DIY Sidewalk Repair Video. In this Video, you will learn how to remove and demolish the existing sidewalk, how to prepare the sidewalk subbase, how to mix and pour the new concrete, and how to finish the concrete sidewalk with rounded concrete edges, control joints, and a concrete broom finish.

To Replace a cracked or damaged segment of sidewalk, start by removing the old sidewalk. Excavate and compact the soil as needed and add apply a ~4” gravel subbase beneath the sidewalk area. Next, use lumber to “form” the sides of the sidewalk and apply concrete to the sidewalk area. Screed the concrete surface to get a uniform layer and then finish the sidewalk concrete surface using a hand trowel and edging trowel. Apply a broom-finish to the concrete surface and add control joints as needed. Finally allow the concrete sidewalk to cure.  

Specifically, video will focus on how to replace a damaged section of concrete sidewalk at the end of a driveway.

Additionally, you can learn how to pour a curved concrete sidewalk by watching my "Curved Concrete Sidewalk" video linked here: https://youtu.be/EJGxT4gNyZU

You can also read my "How to Pour a Concrete Sidewalk" Blog Article for even more information: https://atimprovements.com/how-to-pour-a-concrete-sidewalk/

If you are looking to mix the concrete for your concrete sidewalk by hand using bags on concrete, check out my "5 Ways to mix dry concrete" video linked here:
https://youtu.be/2WuPI_rxBrs

Below are the step by step instructions for how to Replace a Segment of Concrete Sidewalk:

1. Plan out your Sidewalk Project 
Before you can pour a concrete sidewalk, you will need to spend some time planning out the project. Things you will need to think about before starting the project are:
- How much concrete will you need to replace the segment of sidewalk?
- How thick will the concrete sidewalk be?
- Will a gravel subbase be used?

2. Demolish and Remove the Existing Concrete Sidewalk
The first step in replacing a damaged segment of concrete sidewalk is to remove the existing sidewalk. To remove an existing sidewalk, it is recommended that you rent a jackhammer from your local big box store so that you can break up the concrete into smaller, more manageable chunks.  Additionally, use a concrete saw or an angle grinder to cut a control line in the concrete. This will allow you to use the jackhammer to remove a clean, straight line in the concrete.

3. Excavate the New Sidewalk Area as Needed
For most new sidewalks, I recommend that you excavate approximately 8” below grade. This will allow for a four inch gravel sub-base and four inches of sidewalk concrete thickness. Compact the soil using a hand tamp or mechanical compactor. 

4. Apply a Gravel Subbase to the Sidewalk Area
After compacting the soil, you will want to apply approximately 4” of a gravel subbase to the excavated area. Typically, No. 57 stone is used for the gravel subbase.

5. Construct Your Concrete Forms and Position Them in Place
After applying gravel to your new concrete sidewalk area, you will want to construct the concrete “forms” for your sidewalk. Concrete “forms” are simply the frame/perimeter for your sidewalk. To construct the forms, it is recommended that you use 2”x4” lumber. If you are replacing a curved section of sidewalk, you will need to use a flexible form material.

6. Reinforce the Concrete sidewalk (if necessary)
Consider using steel “rebar” or steel wire mesh to the concrete to give it additional strength and to help prevent it from cracking. 

7. Apply Concrete to the Concrete Sidewalk Application Area
At this stage, simply mix up the concrete (or get it delivered via concrete truck) and fill up the entire sidewalk form area with concrete.

8. Finish the Concrete
After applying concrete to the sidewalk form area, you will need to “finish” the concrete. Start by using a straight piece of lumber to screed the surface of the concrete. Then, use a finishing trowel, edging trowel, etc. to finish the surface of the concrete. Give the Concrete Sidewalk a "Broom Finish" if desired.

9. Finishing Touches
Lastly, remove the forms and enjoy your new concrete sidewalk!

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