Concrete Sidewalks & Steps in Flint, MI

Concrete sidewalks and steps are where Flint's housing age shows first. With a median build year of 1954, many houses still have their original front walk and stoop. Over decades, tree roots lift squares, the soil under the steps settles, and freeze-thaw and salt eat away the surface. The result is trip hazards on the walk and steps that tip away from or toward the door. We replace public sidewalk squares, private walks and side paths, and poured concrete front steps.

Flint's public sidewalk rules

The sidewalk between your lawn and the street is in the city right-of-way. Flint's street maintenance permit form, issued by the Department of Transportation's Street Maintenance Division at 702 West 12th Street, covers sidewalk permits and makes the contractor responsible for calling in the final inspection. It also cites City Ordinance 42-48: a property owner, the Department of Public Works or a licensed and bonded sidewalk builder may replace up to three squares, and replacing more than three requires a licensed sidewalk contractor.

Section 42-47 of the city code adds that when a sidewalk or approach becomes unsafe, the Director of Transportation may have it repaired and charge the cost to the owner or occupant. The same section requires snow and ice to be cleared within 24 hours. A heaved or broken square is a liability in more ways than one, so it pays to replace it before it gets flagged.

Building a walk that stays level

We remove the old squares and any roots or soft soil causing the problem, compact a stone base, and pour air-entrained concrete with joints matching the existing walk. HomeGuide's sidewalk guide notes that most walks are 4 to 6 inches thick, with thicker concrete where traffic is heavier, such as where a walk crosses a driveway. Private walks are sloped slightly to one side so water does not pond and freeze.

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Front steps and stoops

An original stoop that has settled is more than an eyesore: if it tips toward the house it sends water against the foundation, and if it pulls away it leaves a gap at the threshold. Replacement steps are formed and poured in place with consistent riser heights and a landing deep enough to open the storm door. For structures that need frost-protected footings, Michigan's building code rule (R 408.30449) sets footings at no less than 42 inches below finish grade, and we confirm what the local building department requires for your stoop before we start.

We can add a broom or stamped finish, tie the steps into a new walk, and leave anchors for a railing.

Repair or replace?

A walk square or stoop that has sunk but is still in one piece can sometimes be lifted with mudjacking or foam. Shallow surface wear can be resurfaced. Steps that are cracked through, crumbling at the edges or pulling away from the house are usually better replaced. We price both options when both are realistic.

Winter care

Use sand instead of rock salt on new walks and steps the first winter. After that, avoid ammonium-based de-icers. A plastic shovel is easier on edges and decorative finishes than a steel one.