Employees, customers, and passers-by can be injured by cracks in the sidewalk or uneven surfaces. Trip hazards may occur for a variety of reasons, but they must be addressed quickly. Although there are some preventative measures available, the majority of hazards are reactive. Some issues will be more apparent than others, but you need to know the exact cause of each trip hazard to remove it.
Causes of Concrete Cracks
Concrete expands and contracts with temperature changes. This weather-related expansion and contraction can cause cracks in large slabs of concrete. This leads to cracks, buckling, and breaking. To avoid this, small slabs with evenly spaced cracks or splits are installed. These are known as expansion joints and allow the concrete to maintain its strength.
Poor Construction Practices
Concrete can crack for a variety of reasons, and it’s only a question of time until a split occurs. This can happen sooner if poor construction practices are used, such as the wrong cement mix or not allowing a slab to cure properly.
Weather Impact
Even the best sidewalks and slabs are susceptible to Michigan winters. The freezing and thawing cause repeated expansions. Concrete with cracks can worsen the problem because water enters through the cracks, causing the slabs to split further.
Soil Issues
Cracks may also be caused by the soil beneath the concrete. If the soil is not properly compacted, it can leave voids. Over time, the lack of proper support can cause the slabs to crack or sink and become uneven.
Risks and Liability
Anyone using the path is at risk of tripping hazards. A crack in concrete can cause serious liability issues on public or private property. Children, the elderly, and people with disabilities are at greatest risk of injury.
ADA Compliance
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a trip hazard as any change in vertical level of more than 1/4 inch. The ADA requires that all federal, municipal, county, and state facilities comply with this trip hazard specification.
Solutions for Trip Hazards
Replacing a cracked slab can be expensive as it involves removing the old one and building a new one. However, the slab jacking technique can be used to repair cracks. This method fills in any voids beneath the slab, making it less likely for cracks to recur.
This post was written by a professional at PJ Concrete. PJ Concrete, based in Los Angeles, CA, excels in delivering top-notch concrete trip hazard removal Torrance CA to your needs. Specializing in Custom Driveways, Custom BBQs, eliminating Trip Hazards, ADA Adherence, Hardscape, and Structural projects, they are dedicated to enhancing the functionality and aesthetic of your property. Trust us for durable, expertly crafted concrete work that stands the test of time. Choose PJ Concrete for quality and precision in every project.
