$1,599 is the average cost to repair a sidewalk
Repairing a sidewalk costs an average of $1,599, with most projects ranging from $726 and $2,485.
Key cost factors include material, type of repair, labor costs, permits, and inspections.
Choosing the right materials and regular maintenance can help reduce future repair costs.
Hiring a sidewalk repair professional ensures the job is done correctly and complies with local regulations.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Repairing a sidewalk costs an average of $1,599, with projects ranging from $290 to $5,000. On average, you can expect to pay $5 to $25 per square foot, depending on factors like location, material, and the extent of the damage. When cracks or uneven areas start appearing on your sidewalk, it not only affects your home's curb appeal but can also pose safety risks for your family and guests. Addressing these issues promptly with professional repairs ensures safety and compliance with local regulations and can prevent more costly repairs down the line.
Several factors influence the cost of repairing your sidewalk. These include the materials used, the type and extent of the damage, the chosen repair method, labor costs, and any required permits or inspections. Understanding these factors can help you better plan and budget for your project.
Outside of the size of the sidewalk, the largest repair cost factor is the type of material used. Repair pros use concrete mix, filler, or caulk, depending on the damage. The table below explores these common materials and the average cost to use them for repair.
Material | Average Cost Range |
---|---|
Concrete mix | $4–$7 per 50-lb bag |
Concrete filler | $10–$20 per bottle |
Concrete caulk | $5–$10 per bottle |
The type of repair work needed can ultimately affect the overall price you’ll pay to fix your sidewalk. In the table below, we look at the most common sidewalk repair costs per square foot.
Repair Task | Cost per Sq. Ft. |
---|---|
Mudjacking | $5–$25 |
Sealing | $8–$15 |
Replacement | $5–$6 |
Mudjacking is the standard process that contractors use to raise sunken concrete. Contractors typically charge $5 to $25 per square foot for mudjacking, though the price is more often on the low end. The cost of mudjacking reaches the high end when slabjacking (raising solid concrete slabs) is involved.
Sealing a sidewalk costs from $8 to $15 per square foot. This cost-effective task can protect the sidewalk from water damage, UV rays, road salt, and de-icer. You can even protect their colors when you seal pavers or stone walkways. Sealing is essential for prolonging the life of your sidewalk surface and can prevent cracks from growing.
If you need to replace a portion of your sidewalk, the total cost will include the price of new materials, the labor, and potentially the disposal of old materials. Depending on the material used (from inexpensive concrete to more costly flagstone or bluestone pavers), you can expect to pay $5 to $6 per square foot for replacement work or $130 to $380 for a five-by-five-foot slab.
Hauling away old materials costs $2 to $6 per square foot, and disposal may add up to $230 per ton, depending on local regulations.
Labor costs can vary based on the size and complexity of the project. Contractors often charge a minimum fee of $400 for replacing one square of concrete. For larger projects, such as replacing 10 squares, labor costs can run up to $1,500. Obtaining estimates from multiple sidewalk contractors can help you find the best rates for your project.
While often not required for minor repairs, larger projects may need a permit or inspection. It's important to consult your local building department or ask your contractor if they will handle the permitting process. Construction permits cost an average of $1,599, depending on the project's scope.
When repairing a front sidewalk, consider coordinating with your city government. They may cover part of the cost, primarily if the damage resulted from municipal activities. Contact your local authorities to confirm your responsibilities and explore any available assistance programs.
Here are some ways to save on sidewalk repair costs:
Maintain your sidewalk regularly by resealing, cleaning, and patching small holes to prevent more significant issues.
Address small cracks promptly to avoid more expensive repairs down the line.
Check with your municipality to see if they will cover any part of the cost of repairing public sidewalks adjacent to your property.
Schedule repairs during off-peak seasons, like fall or early winter, when labor rates may be lower.
Consider DIY for minor tasks if you have the necessary skills, such as sealing small cracks.
While minor repairs like sealing small cracks can be a DIY project if you have the right skills and tools, most sidewalk repairs require professional expertise. Hiring a professional ensures proper leveling, structural integrity, and compliance with local building codes. A qualified contractor eliminates risks associated with improper repairs, delivers durable results, and maintains your property's safety and curb appeal.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Homeowners are responsible for repairing sidewalks that adjoin their private property. However, responsibility can vary by municipality. In some areas, the local government may share costs or cover repairs, especially if the damage is due to city-related activities. It's important to contact your city government to verify your obligations and inquire about any available assistance or reimbursement programs.
Before hiring a concrete contractor, it is important to ask key questions to ensure you choose a qualified professional. Start by asking if they are licensed and insured, and verify their credentials to confirm they meet legal requirements. Request references and speak with past clients to gain insight into their workmanship. Inquire about warranty options and ensure you understand the terms, as this can provide peace of mind. Additionally, confirm whether they will handle obtaining any necessary permits for the project. Asking these questions will help you select a contractor who can deliver quality results.
Sidewalk repair takes one to three days, depending on the size of the area and the type of repair required. Smaller cracks or patching jobs may be completed in a single day, while full slab replacements take longer. Additional time may be required for curing and any necessary inspections or permits.