Paver repair, re-leveling and sealing
One advantage of pavers is that problems can usually be fixed without tearing everything out. Here's what repair looks like.
Pavers that have sunk, shifted or grown weeds aren't necessarily a lost cause. Because each unit is separate, a contractor can lift a problem area, fix the base underneath, reset the same pavers and re-sand the joints. That's much less work than replacing a cracked concrete slab.
What causes pavers to fail?
- A thin or poorly compacted base. The most common cause of low spots and ruts.
- Missing or weak edge restraint. Pavers creep outward and joints open up.
- Water. Sprinklers, downspouts or a leaking line washing out bedding sand.
- Joint sand loss. Wind, rain and pressure washing empty the joints, so pavers loosen and weeds move in.
- Tree roots lifting pavers near trees.
What does repair involve?
- Pull the pavers in the problem area and set them aside.
- Find and fix the cause, such as adding and compacting base or redirecting water.
- Re-screed the bedding layer and reset the pavers.
- Reinstall or add edge restraint.
- Sweep in fresh joint sand and compact.
Cleaning and sealing
Strong sun fades paver color over time, and Tri-Cities hard water from sprinklers can leave white mineral stains. Efflorescence, a white haze that comes from inside new concrete pavers, often fades on its own. A contractor can clean pavers, refill joints with polymeric sand that resists wind and weeds, and apply a sealer if you want to deepen color and make stains easier to clean. Sealing is optional, and the contractor can explain the trade-offs for your pavers.
Signs it's time for repair
- Puddles or low spots after watering
- Pavers that rock or click when stepped on
- Edges spreading into the lawn or gravel
- Weeds in most of the joints
The contractor prices the job after seeing the site, measuring the area and talking through the pattern and materials you want. We don't quote prices, and a number given over the phone is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can sunken pavers be fixed without replacing them?
Usually. The pavers are lifted, the base is fixed and compacted, and the same pavers are reset. Broken units can be swapped out.
Should I pressure wash my pavers?
Carefully, if at all. High pressure can blow sand out of the joints. Re-sand afterward, or have a contractor clean and re-sand them.
Related services
- Paver patios
- Paver driveways and walkways
- Fire pits and outdoor living
- Seat walls and low retaining walls
More background: Tri-Cities paver patio guide.
Ready for a patio you'll actually use?
Call now and a local paver contractor will look at your yard and quote the work.