Sidewalks play a vital role in shaping our urban landscape. People use them to walk their pets. Children use them to catch a bus to their schools and college. People can go about their businesses. In addition to that, this is a green mode of transportation with a very less carbon footprint. We cannot deny the importance of Sidewalks in our society. However, people do not care much when it comes to sidewalk repair. At least not until they get a violation notice from the department of transportation.
It is not tough to maintain a sidewalk. But if that is a bit too much for you, hire a contractor, and they will help you. This article will reflect the importance of sidewalk contractors in Brooklyn as well as the whole of NYC. We'll kick off by telling you about the reasons for sidewalk damage.
What are the Reasons for Sidewalk Destruction?
It is hard to locate the exact source of the problem. There are many factors contributing to this cause. For example, bad weather is the worst enemy of a sidewalk. In addition to that, sunlight and snow also do severe damage to the surface. Here are some of the main reasons for sidewalk damage.
Extra load – Sidewalk has a breaking point, just like anything. We fast-track it by putting too much weight on it. People need to understand that this pathway is only for pedestrians. Many people will not hesitate to park their cars on the side curb. Not to mention constant traffic will also affect your Sidewalk.
Faults in construction – yet another big reason for a faulty sidewalk. If you or your contractor has done a poor job building a sidewalk, it will not last for more than a couple of months. You need to adhere to a strict set of rules while building a sidewalk. Furthermore, if you have hired a contractor, make sure to guide him properly. Not only will it help you with sidewalk integrity but also with your budget.
Lack of maintenance – if the damage happens because of lack of maintenance, then it is partly your fault. The reason is simple. You are responsible for your Sidewalk. The law states that clearly. Additionally, if anything happens on your curb, you will be held responsible for that. That is why it is highly important that you pay close attention to this part of your property.
What does the DOT Say?
The department of transportation has clear guidelines when it comes to sidewalk contractors in Manhattan and maintenance. They do regular visits all around the city. If they find any sidewalk with a crumbling surface and big cracks, they serve them a violation notice. Believe us when we say that you do not want to get that notice.
When you get a notice, your time starts. After that, you will have 75 days to address all the issues mentioned in that notice. Furthermore, if you fail to do so, the DOT will take the matter into their hands. They will hire a concrete contractor and will do that repair job. You should know that you will be paying the cost of that. In addition, you will also have to pay hefty fines.
You can avoid all this by taking care of your curb. It is not that hard. Make sure you wash it once a week and remove all the dust and debris. Your small efforts will take care of your Sidewalk for a long time to come.
How to Take Care of Your Sidewalk?
Not everyone needs a contractor when it comes to sidewalk repair and maintenance. You just must put in a little effort, and it will reflect on your Sidewalk. Here are a few easy DIY things you can do for the betterment of your Sidewalk.
- Removing dust with a broom or a leaf blower is one of the easiest things you can do. In addition to that, you will not need anyone's help with that.
- Eradicating tree roots will also help your Sidewalk. Furthermore, they will not cause any inconvenience for pedestrians. Lastly, you can keep the surface of your Sidewalk completely intact and safe.
- Filling up small cracks and holes as soon as they appear. Because if you don't do that, they will lead to bigger damage that will cost you both time and money.
- If the entire surface is broken and crumbling, you may want to consider replacing the complete Sidewalk. This is a one-time cost that you will have to bear, but it can prevent you from any future problems.
Sidewalk repair in Brooklyn may seem like a tiny option, but it has a lot of benefits. If your Sidewalk is broken, make sure to tend to it instantaneously.