Sidewalks, Walkways & Flatwork

Walkways and sidewalks do more than just connect point A to point B. They guide traffic flow through your property, protect your lawn from foot traffic damage, provide safe paths in all weather, and significantly impact your home's curb appeal.

A well-designed walkway system makes your property more functional and enjoyable. Your guests won't track dirt through your house. Kids have a safe path to play areas. You can access all parts of your yard without mud or wet grass. In Apache Junction's desert landscape, concrete walkways also help define outdoor living spaces and create visual interest.

Properly installed concrete walkways last 30-50 years with minimal maintenance. Unlike gravel that scatters everywhere or stepping stones that shift and settle, concrete stays put and stays level. We've installed hundreds of walkways throughout the area for residential and commercial properties.

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

• Front entry walkways: The path from your driveway or street to your front door. This is prime curb appeal territory and often the first impression visitors get of your home.
• Backyard paths: Connect your patio, pool, shed, or other outdoor features. These create defined routes through your landscaping.
• Side yard access: Provide paths to gates, utility areas, or storage spaces along the side of your house.
• Public sidewalks: The walkway along the street in front of your property. Required by code in many areas and typically must meet specific municipal standards.
• Garden paths: Narrower walkways that wind through landscaping, providing access for maintenance while adding visual interest.
• Concrete steps: We integrate steps into walkways when you have grade changes, ensuring smooth transitions.
• Equipment pads: Small concrete slabs for HVAC units, generators, trash enclosures, or other equipment that needs a level, stable surface.

Each type has specific requirements for width, thickness, and finish. We design walkways that match your needs and complement your existing driveways and patios.

Good walkway design considers both function and appearance. Here's what we think about when planning your project:

Width and Proportion

Front entry walkways should be at least 3 feet wide, but 4-5 feet is better for a generous, welcoming feel. This allows two people to walk side by side comfortably. Side yard and utility paths can be narrower at 2-3 feet. The width should feel proportional to your home's size. A small cottage looks odd with a 6-foot-wide walkway, just as a large home deserves more than a narrow path.

Path and Curves

Straight walkways work well for formal designs and shorter distances. Gentle curves create a more relaxed, natural feel and can make a small yard feel larger by leading the eye through the space. Avoid tight curves that feel forced or awkward. The path should follow natural traffic patterns. Where do people actually walk now? That's usually where the walkway should go.

Slope and Drainage

Walkways need a slight slope for water runoff, typically about 1/4 inch per foot. This keeps puddles from forming but isn't steep enough to notice when walking. If your yard has significant grade changes, we might need to add steps or ramps. We always ensure water drains away from foundations and doesn't pool on the walkway.

Surface Texture and Safety

Walkways need enough texture to provide traction when wet but not so rough they're uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. A broom finish is the standard choice. For a more upscale look, consider stamped or decorative finishes that replicate stone or tile patterns.

Integration with Landscape

The best walkways feel like they belong. We coordinate with your existing or planned landscaping. Leaving spaces for plants to soften the edges makes concrete look less harsh. Lighting along the path improves safety and nighttime aesthetics. We can leave conduit channels for future lighting if you're not ready to install it now.

Professional installation ensures your walkway lasts for decades. Here's our process:

• Layout and marking: We mark the walkway path on the ground so you can visualize the layout and make any adjustments before we start digging
• Excavation: We dig out the path to the proper depth, typically 6-8 inches to accommodate base material and concrete
• Base preparation: We install and compact 3-4 inches of gravel for drainage and stability
• Forms and grading: Wooden or metal forms create clean edges and ensure proper thickness and slope
• Reinforcement: We add wire mesh or fiber reinforcement to prevent cracking
• Concrete placement: We pour and level the concrete, typically 4 inches thick for walkways
• Finishing: We apply your chosen finish texture and cut control joints to manage any minor cracking
• Curing: We protect the fresh concrete and allow proper curing time before use

Most walkway projects take 1-2 days from start to finish, depending on size and complexity. You can typically walk on it lightly after 24-48 hours, with full strength reached in 28 days.

Your walkway doesn't have to be plain gray concrete. Here are ways to add character and style:

• Colored concrete: Add integral color throughout the concrete or apply color hardener to the surface for earthy tones that complement your landscape
• Stamped patterns: Create the look of stone, brick, or tile at a fraction of the cost of the real thing
• Exposed aggregate: Reveal the natural stones in the concrete for a textured, natural appearance
• Borders and bands: Add contrasting colors or textures along the edges or create bands across the walkway
• Saw-cut patterns: Cut geometric patterns into the surface after pouring for a designer look at minimal cost
• Stained or dyed: Apply acid stains or water-based dyes after curing for unique translucent colors

Many homeowners match their walkway finish to their patio or driveway for a cohesive look. We're happy to show you samples and photos of different options during your consultation.