Being able to get outside and enjoy the warm temperatures is what summer’s all about! Whether you’re relaxing on the porch or walking around the neighborhood, the last thing you want to worry about is safety. However, uneven, damaged, or dirty sidewalks can easily turn a nice summer night upside down. So, today we’ll share some tips to help keep them safe—for you and all your guests.
Look for Uneven Spots
Over time, even the sturdiest materials will shift and crack outside. Temperature fluctuations, trapped moisture, and tree roots can all cause paved sidewalks to sink or separate. What you really need to watch for, though, are changes in elevation. If you notice there’s a step between sections higher than around 1/2 inch, that’s when it’s time to re-level them. Depending on where the sidewalks lay, replacement may or may not be your responsibility. Obviously, if they fall on your property, then you’ll want to take care of them as soon as possible. If it’s a neighborhood sidewalk, though, you’ll want to reach out to your local HOA, township, city, etc. to report the issue and find out the procedure for repairs.
Keep it Clean
Now, this is an easy one—at least in our opinion. Look out at your sidewalk, what do you see? Any displaced gravel? What about mud or even algae in shady spots? While these might seem like small issues, they’re prime slipping hazards for people walking by. Oil and other engine residue that leaves slippery spots behind can also create safety issues for your friends, family, and neighbors. The easiest way to combat this is to establish a routine. We can help wash away many of the hazards with regular power washing, and we’re happy to work with entire neighborhoods!
Location, Location, Location
Certain spaces make for more natural walkways. In a neighborhood, those are usually pre-planned. On your property, though, you might start to notice a little wear and tear in places people are creating their own paths. To help preserve your lawn and boost safety, you may want to consider turning these slippery footpaths into paved sidewalks. Flattened grass and/or mud are far from ideal when it comes to entertaining—especially when your guests try to bring the outdoors in. So, try to redesign your walkways with these patterns in mind, and choose a durable material that will be easy to maintain as time goes on.
While we can’t help you with all of these tasks, hopefully you’ve gotten some great ideas from our summer safety tips. Now, if you do need help pressure washing your local sidewalks, please don’t hesitate to give Peak Power Wash a call! We proudly serve Westminster, Finksburg, Hampstead, Sykesville, Eldersburg, Manchester, New Windsor, Mt Airy, Woodbine in Carroll County. Ellicott City, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge in Howard. Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Hunt Valley, Monkton, Cockeysville, Towson, Parkton, Pikesville, Randallstown in Baltimore County. New Market, Walkersville, Thurmont, Emmittsburg in Frederick. Other areas include Spring Grove, Gettysburg, Littlestown, and Hanover Pennsylvania. Find out why it’s easier than you think to have safe, clean walkways for everyone to enjoy—whatever the season.
