Sidewalks, Walkways & Flatwork

Safe, attractive walkways that connect your spaces and enhance your property.

Professional concrete walkway and steps installation in Dover, NH

Why Choose Concrete for Walkways

Walkways and sidewalks are more than just paths from point A to point B. They are safety features. They guide traffic. They protect your lawn from foot traffic. And they contribute to your property's curb appeal. Choosing the right material matters. Concrete offers advantages that make it the top choice for residential and commercial walkways in Dover, NH.

Concrete is durable and long-lasting. A properly installed concrete walkway can last 30 years or more. It handles foot traffic, weather, and even light vehicle crossings without breaking down. Unlike gravel that scatters or pavers that shift, concrete stays put. It does not develop ruts or become uneven easily. This makes it safer and easier to maintain. You are not constantly raking gravel back into place or resetting pavers.

Concrete is also cost-effective. The upfront cost is competitive with pavers and much lower than natural stone. Maintenance costs are minimal. An occasional power wash keeps it looking clean. If you choose to seal it, the surface stays protected longer. But even without sealing, concrete holds up well. Over the life of the walkway, concrete saves you money compared to materials that need regular replacement or repair.

At Brickhaven Dover Concrete, we install sidewalks, walkways, and all types of flatwork. We have done everything from simple front walkways to extensive commercial sidewalk projects. We understand local codes and ADA requirements. We know how to grade for proper drainage. We build walkways that look great and perform even better. Our crew takes pride in doing clean, professional work that stands the test of time.

Types of Flatwork We Install

Flatwork refers to any horizontal concrete surface. Here are the most common types we work with:

Front Walkways

The walkway from your driveway or street to your front door is often the first thing visitors see. We design and build front walkways that are functional and attractive. This includes proper width for comfortable walking, appropriate slope for drainage, and a finish that complements your home. You can choose from standard broom finish, stamped patterns, or colored concrete to match your style.

Side and Back Walkways

Walkways along the side of your house or leading to your backyard get less attention but are just as important. They provide safe access and protect your lawn from becoming a muddy path. We make sure these walkways slope away from your foundation to prevent water issues. We also consider where people naturally walk and design paths that follow those patterns.

Public Sidewalks

If you are responsible for the sidewalk in front of your property, we can replace or repair it. Public sidewalks must meet local code requirements for width, slope, and accessibility. We handle all the details including permits and inspections. You get a compliant sidewalk that matches the surrounding sections.

Garden Paths

Garden paths wind through landscaping and connect different areas of your yard. These can be simple utilitarian paths or more decorative walkways that enhance your landscape design. Concrete works well for garden paths because it can be formed into curves and irregular shapes. You can also add color or texture to make it blend with the natural surroundings.

Commercial Sidewalks and Access Paths

Businesses need safe, ADA-compliant walkways. We install sidewalks for retail locations, office buildings, apartment complexes, and other commercial properties. This includes proper curb ramps, detectable warning surfaces, and compliant slopes. We understand the regulations and build walkways that meet all requirements.

Equipment Pads and Utility Pads

Flatwork also includes pads for HVAC units, generators, trash enclosures, and other equipment. These pads provide a stable, level surface and keep equipment off the ground. We size them correctly and ensure proper drainage around the equipment. This is straightforward work, but it makes a big difference in how well your equipment performs and how long it lasts.

Design Considerations and Safety

Building a good walkway requires more than just pouring concrete. Here are the factors we consider:

  • Width: Walkways should be wide enough for comfortable use. A residential front walkway is typically 3 to 4 feet wide. Paths to side or back yards can be narrower, around 2 to 3 feet. Commercial sidewalks often need to be 4 to 6 feet to accommodate wheelchair users and allow people to pass each other.
  • Slope and Drainage: Walkways need a slight slope for water to run off. Too flat and water pools. Too steep and it becomes slippery or difficult for wheelchairs. We typically aim for a 1 to 2 percent slope. We also make sure water drains away from buildings and does not create erosion problems.
  • Surface Finish: A broom finish provides traction, which is important for safety. Smooth trowel finishes look nice but can be slippery when wet. For decorative walkways, we can use stamped patterns or exposed aggregate. These provide both traction and visual interest.
  • Expansion Joints: Concrete expands and contracts with temperature changes. Expansion joints allow for this movement without cracking. We place joints at regular intervals and at transitions to other structures. This keeps your walkway looking clean and intact for years.
  • ADA Compliance: If your project requires ADA compliance, we ensure proper slopes, width, and surface texture. We install detectable warning surfaces at curb ramps and ensure there are no trip hazards. Compliance protects you from liability and makes your property accessible to everyone.
  • Integration with Landscaping: Walkways should complement your landscaping, not fight it. We work around trees, shrubs, and garden beds. We can curve paths to avoid obstacles or create visual interest. The goal is a walkway that feels like a natural part of your property.

Safety is our top priority. Uneven walkways are trip hazards. We make sure every section is level and transitions are smooth. We pay attention to details like where steps are needed and how they connect to the walkway. Good design prevents accidents and makes your property easier to navigate for everyone. If you also need concrete steps or driveway work, we can coordinate everything to ensure a cohesive result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready for a New Walkway?

Contact Brickhaven Dover Concrete for a free estimate. We will assess your property, discuss your needs, and design a walkway that works for you. Let us connect your spaces with quality concrete work.

(603) 665-0813