Short answer
Concrete walkways and steps are a safety feature as much as a finish. A published Ontario price guide lists sidewalks at about $7 to $17 per square foot (an estimate, not a quote). Steps need consistent riser heights, proper footing and a slip-resistant finish, and walkways need gentle drainage slope and a stable base.
Signs your walkway or steps need replacing
- Slabs that have lifted or dropped, creating a trip edge.
- Steps that have settled away from the house or pulled from the landing.
- Crumbling edges, exposed rebar or large areas of surface scaling.
- Water that pools on the walk or runs toward the foundation.
- Uneven riser heights, which are a common cause of falls.
- Cracks that keep widening year after year.
Smaller issues can sometimes be repaired. See repair and resurfacing for what is realistic.
Design details that matter
| Detail | What to aim for | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Walkway width | Often 3 to 4 feet for a main entry path | Comfortable for two people and for carrying items. |
| Cross slope | Gentle, around 1 to 2 percent | Drains water without feeling tilted. |
| Step risers | Uniform height; many residential codes aim for about 7 inches or less | Inconsistent risers cause falls. |
| Landing | Level, and large enough to open a door safely | Safety and accessibility. |
| Handrails | Required by building code for steps above a certain number; check the current code | Safety and compliance. |
| Surface | Broom or textured finish | Slip resistance when wet or icy. |
Built to survive frost
Steps and landings that sit on shallow or poorly drained soil can move with frost, so they may need to be supported on proper footings or tied to the structure. A contractor should explain how the steps will be supported, what base will be used under walkways and how drainage will keep water away from the house.
The standard exterior-concrete protections apply: air-entrained concrete, a compacted granular base, control joints and sealing. De-icing salts are especially harsh on entries, so consider sand or a gentler alternative and see our salt and frost damage guide.
Sidewalks and the City
The public sidewalk in front of a house is municipal infrastructure, and the City of London controls work in the road allowance. A homeowner typically should not replace or alter a public sidewalk or curb on their own. If the problem is on City property, contact the City. A private front walk inside your lot is different, but it can still be affected by grading and drainage rules.
If the walkway meets the driveway, a driveway or widening project may involve permits.
Cost and questions to ask
The HomeStars Ontario price guide (August 2026, Ottawa-based contractors) lists sidewalks at about $7 to $17 per square foot, concrete patios at about $10 to $30 per square foot and demolition at about $3 to $8 per square foot. These are ESTIMATE ranges, not London quotes. Small steps and tight sites often cost more per square foot than long straight walks.
- How will the steps be supported against frost movement?
- How will water drain away from the house?
- What finish gives the best traction in ice and rain?
- Will the new work meet current Ontario Building Code requirements for rise, run and handrails?
- Do you carry liability insurance and a current WSIB clearance certificate?
Frequently asked questions
How much does a concrete walkway cost in Ontario?
A published Ontario price guide lists sidewalks at roughly $7 to $17 per square foot. Actual quotes depend on length, width, demolition, steps and finish.
Can I replace the public sidewalk in front of my house?
Generally the public sidewalk belongs to the municipality and work on it is controlled by the City. Contact the City of London if the sidewalk is damaged.
How long does a concrete walkway last?
A well-built, drained and sealed walkway can last many years, but lifespan depends on base, mix, drainage and salt exposure.
Why did my steps pull away from the house?
Frost heave, poor drainage or inadequate footings are the usual causes. A contractor can assess whether to repair or rebuild.
What finish is safest for steps?
A broom or textured finish with a non-slip sealer. Avoid smooth trowel finishes outdoors.
Do I need a permit for new concrete steps?
It depends on height and attachment to the house. Ask the City of London or your contractor to confirm before work starts.