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Cracks in the sidewalk
By: Patrick Mahoney
Owner/Operator
of SHERLOCK HOME INSPECTOR
Q.
Our home inspector said that parts of our sidewalk are a potential
trip hazard. We think that he
is being too picky and splitting hairs.
What do think about cracks in sidewalks?
A.
Simple cracks in a concrete sidewalk are not necessarily a problem
unless they become large enough to catch the heel or toe of a shoe or the
tip of a cane. Cracks
normally indicate movement in the sidewalk, and are fairly normal. Most sidewalks that are more than 20 years old will have some
cracks. On the other hand,
upheavals in sections of the sidewalk can be a liability.
Concrete sidewalks typically will have expansion joints at regular
intervals. These individual
sections of concrete can rise or fall as much as three inches in some
extreme cases. The most
common reason for upheaval is tree roots.
The opposite problem is caused by subsidence where the ground
beneath the slab sinks.
An upheaval of more than one inch can become a dangerous trip
hazard, and a liability to you as the home owner.
This type of trip hazard is particularly dangerous at night.
In my practice, I always explain this to the client, and encourage
them to make repairs.
Article: Cracks in the sidewalk
by Patrick Mahoney Ó 2004 |
