Construction Industry/concrete sidewalks

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Expert: - 5/9/2010


Question
how do i figure slope on concrete sidewalks

Answer
Hi James,

Don't worry about the "degree" of slope - that's for the engineers to figure out.
Rather, for concrete sidewalks, calculate the "pitch" instead of the slope.  

If the sidewalk is to pitch in one direction to one side and (we'll assume") is
4' wide - allow 1/4" per foot.  That would be 4 x 1/4" or 1" from the high side
to the low side.  For a 5' wide sidewalk, the net calculation is 1-1/4".  Be sure
and broom sweep from the high side to the low side so water run-off is not blocked.

If the pitch is to be from the center of the 4' sidewalk to each side, then the low
point on each side should be 1/2" below the crown of the sidewalk.  It's a little
trickier because you don't have a crown form to work from.

The pitch is easily built-in during the forming stage.  With the higher center, the
grade under the walk can be shaped with a crown also but that is not necessary. Just
add a little concrete and check the pitch with a 2"x 4" float and level.

I think that answers your question.  If not, please send me a follow-up message.

Thanks

Roger
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Roger Zona

Expertise

I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

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