When it comes to constructing sidewalks, it’s important to ensure durability and longevity. Rebar and other reinforcement methods help to provide strength and stability to concrete, but do sidewalks need rebar?
You don’t always need rebar for sidewalks. While it’s essential for thicker sidewalks, especially those that exceed five inches, most general-use sidewalks don’t need rebar.
In this article, we’ll discuss whether sidewalks need rebar, when it’s necessary, and what size you need for a sidewalk. We’ll also compare using rebar, mesh, and other alternatives.
What’s Rebar and How Does it Work?
Reinforcement bars, or rebars, are steel bars used to make concrete stronger and more durable. Since concrete tends to crack and fail when it’s subjected to tension, rebars are often added to help it resist tension.
The rebars are placed in a grid-like pattern before the concrete is poured. When the concrete sets and dries, the rebars are embedded within it to act as an internal support structure.
Steel is usually used because it has a similar rate of thermal expansion to that of concrete. Both materials will expand or contract at the same rate when the temperature changes, preventing any damage.
Should You Add Rebar to Sidewalks?
Adding rebar to sidewalks depends on how strong and thick you need them to be. The heavier the load that the sidewalk is expected to carry daily, the thicker and stronger it has to be.
Most common-use sidewalks only need around 4-inch thick concrete. This is usually strong enough to support foot traffic and lightweight wheel traffic like carts and bicycles.
In this instance, you won’t need to add a rebar. The sidewalk won’t gain much from the extra support, and you may suffer downsides like added time and cost during construction and repairs.
If you’re building a sidewalk intended for pedestrian use, it’s best to forego adding rebar.
When Do You Need Rebar for Sidewalks?
Rebar becomes necessary when the sidewalk you want to build will have to support the weight of heavier vehicles.
For example, a sidewalk intersecting a driveway will need extra reinforcement to withstand a car’s weight regularly.
Sidewalks expected to carry heavy loads like motorized vehicles, trucks, or machinery, must be around six to eight inches thick. It’s generally recommended that when sidewalks are more than five inches thick, it’s time to add rebar.
What Size Rebar Is Needed for a Sidewalk?
Rebars come in seven different sizes. It may be tricky to choose the right size for your needs.
The ⅛ Rule used by constructors helps to determine the right rebar size. According to the rule, the rebar size should be ⅛ of the concrete’s thickness.
So if you’re building a 6-inch sidewalk that intersects with a driveway, you should get the #6 rebar, which is ¾ inch in diameter.
If you need to build a sidewalk that’s eight inches thick, then the appropriate size would be #8, which is one inch thick.
Do Sidewalks Need a Wire Mesh?
Like rebars, wire meshes aren’t necessary to reinforce sidewalks, especially 4-inch sidewalks commonly used as walkways.
However, wire meshes cost less than rebars. It also takes less labor to install. So, if you want to add extra support, wire mesh may be a more convenient choice for common-use sidewalks. It can help bridge the concrete when it starts to crack.
Though if your sidewalk needs heavier reinforcement, the best choice is still rebar because it’s much stronger than wire mesh.
How Can You Reinforce Your Sidewalk Without Rebar?
Apart from wire mesh and rebar, another option for reinforcing your sidewalk is putting additives like Helix Micro Rebar or Fibers in your concrete.
This option can also provide strength and resilience to your sidewalk while saving time and labor. You just need to put the additive into the concrete mix.
However, using additives isn’t as strong as using rebar. Many still prefer rebar as primary reinforcement and additives as secondary reinforcement.
Final Thoughts
The decision to use rebar, wire mesh, or concrete additives in your sidewalk depends on factors such as the thickness of the concrete and the intended use. You may also want to consider your budget, the required labor, and the timeline for the project.
With thorough research and these factors in mind, you can ensure that your sidewalk will remain sturdy and reliable for a long time.
I have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems and over 10 years of experience working in IT. As a homeowner, I love working on projects around the house, and as a father, I love investigating various ways to keep my family safe (whether or not this involves tech). I’ve also played guitar for almost 20 years and love writing music, although it’s hard to find the time these days.