How to Fix Sinking Pavers

Sinking pavers can be a real headache. They make your driveway, patio, or walkway look uneven and can even be a tripping hazard. But don’t worry—you don’t have to live with them! Learning how to fix sinking pavers is easier than you might think.

In this guide, we’ll break down why pavers sink, what you need to fix them, and how to get your outdoor space looking good as new. We’ll also cover how to repair sunken pavers in high-traffic areas so they stay put for the long haul.

Why Do Pavers Sink?

Before we get into the step-by-step process of fixing sunken pavers, it’s important to understand why they sink in the first place. Knowing the cause will not only help you fix the issue but also prevent it from happening again.

Pavers are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but over time, natural elements and external forces can cause them to shift or sink. Here are the most common reasons why this happens:

1. Weak Base Layer

A strong foundation is the key to long-lasting pavers. If the base layer wasn’t installed properly, the pavers can settle unevenly over time.

What causes a weak base?

• Poor compaction: When the base material (typically crushed stone or gravel) isn’t compacted enough during installation, it remains loose. Over time, the weight of people, vehicles, or furniture will cause the ground to settle, making the pavers sink.
• Not enough base material: The recommended base depth varies depending on the type of paver project. For example:
  • Walkways need at least 4-6 inches of compacted base material.
  • Driveways require 8-12 inches for proper weight distribution.
• Wrong type of base material: Some contractors or DIY installers use sand alone as a base, which isn’t stable enough. A combination of crushed stone and sand works best.

How to prevent this in the future?

• Always use compacted crushed stone (like limestone or granite) as the primary base.
• Make sure the base layer is at least 4-6 inches thick for patios and 8-12 inches thick for driveways.
• Use a plate compactor or tamper between each layer to ensure the base is firm and won’t settle over time.

2. Water Erosion & Poor Drainage

Water is one of the biggest threats to your paver installation. If your outdoor space has drainage issues, water can wash away the sand or gravel underneath, creating voids that cause the pavers to sink.

How does water cause pavers to sink?

• Improper slope: If your patio, driveway, or walkway doesn’t have the right slope, water will pool instead of draining away.
• Clogged drainage systems: If you have nearby gutters or drains, they need to be kept clean. Blocked drains can lead to standing water, which slowly erodes the foundation beneath the pavers.
• Heavy rainfall or flooding: After a big storm, excessive water can seep under the pavers and wash away the base material.

How can I check if drainage is the problem?

• After heavy rain, check for standing water around your pavers.
• If water pools in certain areas instead of draining away, the slope might need adjustment.
• Look for pavers that have settled lower in areas where water tends to collect.

How to fix or prevent drainage issues?

• Make sure the paver installation has a slight slope (usually a 1-2% grade) to direct water away.
• Install drainage channels or French drains if you notice water pooling near the pavers.
• Keep nearby gutters and drains clear of debris.
• Use polymeric sand between paver joints—it helps lock the pavers in place while preventing water from seeping through and washing away the base.

3. Heavy Loads on Pavers

Not all pavers are designed to handle heavy loads. If your driveway or patio has been used beyond its weight capacity, the pavers may sink or shift over time.

What kinds of loads can cause pavers to sink?

• Vehicles parked on patios or walkways: If pavers were originally installed for foot traffic but end up supporting cars, the base might not be strong enough.
• Large outdoor furniture or hot tubs: If a heavy structure like an outdoor kitchen or hot tub sits on pavers without proper support, they may sink under the weight.
• Frequent high foot traffic: In commercial properties or high-use areas, repeated pressure can compact the base unevenly, leading to sunken spots.

How to prevent sinking in high-traffic or load-bearing areas?

• Choose the right pavers: Driveway pavers should be at least 2 3/8 inches thick to withstand vehicle weight.
• Use a thicker base layer: Adding extra crushed stone beneath the pavers in high-traffic areas will help distribute the weight evenly.
• Reinforce with edge restraints: Installing edge restraints along driveways and high-traffic walkways will help keep the pavers from shifting outward under pressure.

4. Tree Roots Causing Shifting

Tree roots are another common reason why pavers sink—or even worse, lift and create uneven surfaces.

How do tree roots affect pavers?

• Growing roots push up pavers: As roots expand, they displace the base material, causing pavers to rise.
• Dying roots create voids: If an old tree is removed or its roots rot, the empty space beneath the pavers can cause them to sink.

What can you do if tree roots are a problem?

• If a tree is nearby, install a root barrier to prevent roots from growing under the pavers.
• Avoid planting large trees too close to paver installations.
• If roots have already caused sinking, you may need to remove or trim them before resetting the base and reinstalling the pavers.

5. Soil Movement & Settling Over Time

Even if your pavers were installed correctly, natural soil movement can cause them to shift over time.

Why does the soil move?

• Expanding and contracting soil: Some types of soil, like clay, expand when wet and shrink when dry, which can cause shifting.
• Freezing and thawing cycles: In colder climates, the freeze-thaw cycle can push pavers up in the winter and cause them to settle in the spring.
• Settling ground: If the soil was not properly compacted before installation, it may settle unevenly over time, leading to dips in your paver surface.

How can you prevent soil movement from affecting pavers?

• Use geotextile fabric beneath the base to help stabilize the soil and prevent shifting.
• Make sure the base is deep enough to accommodate different soil conditions—some areas may need a thicker base for extra support.
• Check for underground issues like water leaks, as excess moisture can cause soil to erode or expand.

Now that you know why pavers sink, you can take steps to prevent future problems. If you’re dealing with sunken pavers, the good news is that they can be fixed with the right approach.

How to Fix Sinking Pavers Step by Step

You may be asking yourself how to fix sinking pavers. Fixing sinking pavers may seem like a big project, but with the right approach, it’s a straightforward process. Whether it’s your patio, driveway, or walkway, you can restore the smooth, even surface of your pavers by following these steps. Taking the time to do it correctly will ensure that your pavers stay in place for years to come.

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools and materials:

What You’ll Need

Gather these tools and materials before you start:

1. Flathead screwdriver or pry bar (to lift pavers)
2. Rubber mallet
3. Level
4. Shovel
5. Paver sand (polymeric sand works best)
6. Crushed stone or gravel (if needed to rebuild the base)
7. Hand tamper or plate compactor
8. Broom
9. Hose or water sprayer

Step 1: Remove the Sunken Pavers

Before you can fix the issue, you’ll need to lift the pavers that have sunk.

How do I remove pavers without damaging them?

• Insert a flathead screwdriver or pry bar between the pavers and gently lift.
• If they are tight-fitting, you may need to wiggle them slightly before they come loose.
• Be careful not to crack or chip the pavers as you lift them.
• Set them aside in the same order so they can be reinstalled easily.

Tip: If the pavers are difficult to remove, try using a rubber mallet to tap them slightly from the sides to loosen them.

Step 2: Check the Base

Once the pavers are removed, take a close look at the area beneath them.

What should I look for?

• Uneven base: If the base material is not level, you’ll need to fix it before reinstalling the pavers.
• Erosion: If sand or gravel has washed away, it will need to be replaced.
• Soil movement: If the ground is soft or shifting, you may need to compact it more before moving forward.

If you find any of these issues, continue to the next step to reinforce the base.

Step 3: Add or Fix the Base Layer

The foundation beneath your pavers is crucial to keeping them level and stable. If the base isn’t strong enough, your pavers will continue to sink over time.

How do I fix a weak base?

• If the base material looks too thin or uneven, add a fresh layer of crushed stone or gravel.
• Spread the gravel evenly and use a hand tamper or plate compactor to press it down firmly.
• The goal is to create a solid, compact foundation that won’t shift under pressure.

How thick should the base be?

• Patios and walkways: 4–6 inches of compacted crushed stone
• Driveways: 8–12 inches of compacted crushed stone

A properly compacted base will prevent future settling and keep your pavers stable.

Step 4: Spread a Layer of Sand

Once your base layer is solid, it’s time to add a new layer of sand.

Why is paver sand important?

• It creates a level surface for the pavers.
• It fills in small gaps and keeps pavers from shifting.
• It helps prevent weeds from growing between pavers.

How to apply paver sand:

• Spread about one inch of paver sand evenly over the compacted base.
• Use a screed board (a long, flat board) to smooth it out.
• Make sure the sand layer is level and consistent across the area.

Step 5: Place the Pavers Back

Now it’s time to reinstall the pavers in their original positions.

How do I make sure the pavers are even?

• Lay the pavers back in the same pattern they were in before.
• Press them gently into the sand, making sure each paver sits level with the others.
• Use a rubber mallet to tap them into place, ensuring a snug fit.

Tip: Check your work with a level as you go to avoid any uneven surfaces.

Step 6: Fill the Gaps with Sand

Once the pavers are in place, you need to lock them together with sand.

What type of sand should I use?

• Polymeric sand is the best choice because it hardens when wet, preventing pavers from shifting and keeping weeds from growing in between.

How to apply the sand:

• Pour the sand over the pavers and sweep it into the joints using a broom.
• Keep sweeping until all the gaps are completely filled.

Step 7: Compact and Set the Pavers

After filling the joints, you need to compact the pavers to help them settle evenly.

How do I compact pavers?

• Use a plate compactor (for large areas) or a hand tamper (for small areas) to press the pavers down.
• This ensures that they are firmly set in the sand and won’t shift over time.

If necessary, add more polymeric sand and compact again to fill any remaining gaps.

Step 8: Water the Area

To fully set the sand and lock the pavers in place, you’ll need to lightly wet the area.

How much water should I use?

• Use a hose with a spray nozzle or a watering can to lightly mist the surface.
• Avoid using too much water, as it can wash away the sand.
• Let the area dry completely before walking or driving on the pavers.

Step 9: Check Your Work

After a few days, inspect the repaired area to make sure everything is still level.

What should I look for?

• Are the pavers still sitting evenly?
• Are any joints missing sand?
• Is there any sign of movement or sinking?

If you notice any gaps in the sand, add more and mist it again with water.

How to Repair Sunken Pavers in High-Traffic Areas

If you have pavers in a high-traffic area—such as a driveway, walkway, or patio used frequently—you may find that they sink faster than in other parts of your property. These areas experience more pressure and wear, so if pavers begin to settle unevenly, it’s important to address the issue quickly and reinforce them properly.

Why Do Pavers Sink More in High-Traffic Areas?

Pavers in high-use areas are more prone to sinking due to several factors:

• Heavy Weight and Pressure – Vehicles, frequent foot traffic, and heavy furniture or equipment put consistent pressure on the pavers, which can cause them to sink if the base isn’t strong enough.
• Erosion from Water Drainage Issues – If water isn’t directed away properly, it can seep into the ground under the pavers, washing away the sand and gravel that support them.
• Compacted Soil Settling Over Time – Even a well-compacted base will settle naturally over time, especially in areas that bear significant weight.
• Incorrect Base Installation – If the base wasn’t thick enough or wasn’t properly compacted when the pavers were first installed, they will start sinking more quickly under stress.

Steps to Repair Sunken Pavers in Driveways, Walkways, and Other High-Traffic Areas

While fixing sunken pavers in high-traffic areas follows the same basic process as regular repairs, reinforcing the base is especially important to ensure they don’t sink again.

Step 1: Identify the Problem Areas

• Walk around your driveway, patio, or walkway and look for pavers that have sunken or shifted.
• Check if water pools in any areas after rain—this could indicate a drainage issue.
• Inspect nearby pavers that haven’t sunk yet but may be at risk due to soft or unstable ground underneath.

Step 2: Remove the Sunken Pavers

• Use a flathead screwdriver or pry bar to carefully lift the pavers in the affected area.
• Be gentle to avoid cracking or chipping them.
• Set them aside in the same order so you can reinstall them in their original pattern.

Step 3: Inspect and Reinforce the Base

A weak base is often the main reason pavers sink in high-traffic areas. This step is critical to preventing future issues.

• Check the depth of the base material (gravel or crushed stone). If it is too shallow, you’ll need to add more.
• If the base material is loose or has eroded, remove it and replace it with new compacted gravel.
• For driveways, the base should be at least 8-12 inches deep to support vehicle weight.
• For walkways and patios, the base should be at least 4-6 inches deep to handle foot traffic and furniture.
• Use a plate compactor to firmly compact the base material before adding sand.

Step 4: Add a New Layer of Paver Sand

• Spread one inch of paver sand over the compacted base to create a smooth, level surface.
• Use a straightedge or screed board to ensure the sand is evenly distributed.
• This layer helps absorb weight and reduces friction between the pavers.

Step 5: Reinstall the Pavers

• Place the pavers back in their original pattern, ensuring a snug fit.
• Use a rubber mallet to tap them into place and make sure they are level with the surrounding pavers.
• Check the entire surface with a level to ensure evenness.

Step 6: Fill the Joints with Polymeric Sand

Polymeric sand is especially useful in high-traffic areas because it hardens when wet, helping to lock pavers in place.

• Sweep polymeric sand into the joints between the pavers, filling all gaps completely.
• Use a broom to remove excess sand from the surface.
• Mist the area lightly with water to activate the binding agents in the sand.
• Let the sand dry and set before walking or driving on the surface.

Step 7: Compact the Pavers Again

• Use a plate compactor to press the pavers into the sand and ensure they are fully set.
• If any gaps appear, add more polymeric sand and repeat the compaction process.

Step 8: Final Inspection and Cleanup

• Check the area after a few days to make sure the pavers haven’t shifted.
• Keep an eye on the repaired section over the next few weeks, especially after heavy rain.

How to Prevent Pavers from Sinking Again

Now that you’ve fixed your sinking pavers, the next step is making sure they stay in place. Here are the best ways to prevent future sinking.

1. Start with a Strong Base

If you are installing new pavers, or if you are making major repairs, the base is the most important factor in long-term stability.

• Use crushed stone or gravel rather than just sand for the base.
• Compact the base properly in layers using a plate compactor.
• Make sure the base is deep enough for the type of load the pavers will bear:
  • Driveways: 8-12 inches of compacted gravel
  • Walkways and patios: 4-6 inches of compacted gravel

2. Fix Drainage Issues to Prevent Erosion

Water is one of the main reasons pavers sink, so keeping it away from your hardscape is crucial.

• Ensure proper slope: Your driveway, walkway, or patio should have a slight slope (1-2%) to allow water to drain naturally.
• Install drainage solutions: If water tends to pool in certain areas, consider adding a French drain, channel drain, or underground drainage pipe.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean: If rainwater from your roof is flowing onto your pavers, redirect it away using downspout extenders.
• Use polymeric sand in joints: This helps prevent water from washing away the base material.

3. Use Polymeric Sand to Lock Pavers in Place

Standard sand can wash away over time, causing pavers to loosen. Polymeric sand is a better option because it hardens when wet, keeping the pavers locked together.

• After installing or repairing pavers, sweep polymeric sand into the joints and mist it with water.
• This will create a durable bond and reduce shifting.

4. Compact the Base Layer Properly

If the base isn’t compacted enough, the ground beneath the pavers will settle unevenly over time.

• Always compact the base in layers using a plate compactor rather than adding all the material at once.
• A solid base reduces air pockets and ensures the pavers stay level for years.

5. Keep an Eye on Your Pavers Over Time

Even with proper installation, natural settling can occur. Checking your pavers regularly can help you catch small problems before they turn into bigger repairs.

• Walk around your patio, driveway, or walkway every few months to check for minor dips or shifting.
• If you notice small gaps forming, add more polymeric sand to reinforce the joints.
• Fix small issues early before they become major repairs.

High-traffic areas require extra attention when it comes to paver installation and maintenance. By reinforcing the base, addressing drainage issues, and using the right materials, you can keep your pavers looking great and staying level for years to come.

Need Help? Call Panda Pavers!

Fixing sunken pavers can be a great DIY project, but if the problem keeps coming back or you’re dealing with a large area, calling in the pros can save you time and effort. At Panda Pavers, we specialize in high-quality paver installations and repairs to keep your outdoor spaces looking great.

If your pavers need a professional touch, contact Panda Pavers today for a consultation. Let’s get your patio, driveway, or walkway looking as good as new!