Walkway design decisions — width, slope, and surface texture — are made before the pour. Getting them right prevents both safety hazards and drainage problems for the life of the concrete.
Walkway width
A minimum of 3 feet is needed for comfortable single-person use. 4 feet allows two people to walk side by side. Primary entries to a home should be at least 4 feet.
Drainage slope
Walkways should slope a minimum of 1/8 inch per foot away from adjacent structures and toward a drainage point. A walkway that pitches toward the house directs rain water toward the foundation.
Surface texture for traction
A broom finish provides adequate traction for most outdoor walkways. In areas with frequent wet conditions, a coarser broom texture or exposed aggregate provides better slip resistance.
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