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Cement Walks

Cement walks are slippery in winter and glary in [231] summer, but if well made a cement walk is the most durable kind obtainable. It is made over a foundation layer of cinders 6 inches in depth, or deeper in very heavy soils. Extremely light naturally well-drained land does not require this extra drainage. Over the cinders place a layer of coarse concrete 3 inches deep, made as follows: 5 parts cinders on gravel, 2 parts sharp (builder's) sand and 1 part cement. Mix these ingredients together adding enough water to wet, then mix again. Over this layer is applied to the depth of 1 inch the surface coat of cement. It is well to apply this top layer before the under coat is quite dry in order to secure a firmer union. It is made by mixing together 1 part of cement and 2 or 3 parts of sharp sand. A 3/4-inch expansion joint should be provided between and adjoining every few sections in order to allow for the expansion and contraction with heat and cold which normally takes place in cement walks. This joint may be filled with some material such as sand which will give readily. The joints made should extend to the foundation layer of cinders. Never make this kind of walk if it will be exposed to the action of frost for at least 2 weeks after the work is completed. Drying out should take place slowly and to accomplish this purpose scatter burlap or straw over the surface, then sprinkle the covering well with water. [232]