Uneven pavers can make your outdoor space look messy and even become a tripping hazard. Over time, pavers can shift due to things like weather, tree roots, or a weak foundation. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, or walkway, learning how to fix uneven pavers is easier than you might think!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of leveling your pavers so they look great and stay safe to walk on.
Why Do Pavers Become Uneven?
Before we jump into the fix, it helps to know why pavers shift in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Erosion – Rain, irrigation, and poor drainage can wash away the sand or gravel beneath your pavers, causing them to sink.
- Tree Roots – Roots from nearby trees can grow underneath and push pavers up.
- Improper Installation – If the base wasn’t packed down properly during installation, pavers can settle unevenly over time.
- Weather Changes – In colder areas, water can seep under pavers, freeze, and expand, making them shift.
- Heavy Foot Traffic or Vehicles – If your pavers aren’t on a strong foundation, repeated pressure from walking or driving can cause them to sink or shift.
Now that you know what causes the problem, let’s get into how to fix uneven pavers!
How to Fix Uneven Pavers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Uneven pavers can make your outdoor space look messy and even create a tripping hazard. Over time, pavers shift due to things like weather, tree roots, and normal wear and tear. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, or walkway, learning how to fix uneven pavers can save you money and help keep your outdoor area looking great.
The good news? Fixing pavers doesn’t require specialized skills—just some basic tools, a little patience, and a step-by-step approach. Follow this guide to get your pavers looking as good as new.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you’ll need to get the job done:
- Flathead screwdriver or putty knife – For prying up pavers without damaging them.
- Rubber mallet – To tap pavers back into place.
- Level – To make sure the pavers sit evenly.
- Broom – For sweeping sand into the gaps.
- Sand – Either polymeric sand or paver base sand to secure the pavers.
- Gravel – If extra support is needed under the pavers.
- Tamper or hand compactor – To pack the base material down.
- Garden hose – If using polymeric sand, which hardens when wet.
Why do I need polymeric sand instead of regular sand?
Polymeric sand is specially designed for pavers and helps lock them in place. When activated with water, it hardens and prevents shifting. Regular sand can work, but polymeric sand is more durable and helps prevent weeds and erosion.
Step 2: Remove the Uneven Pavers
Now that you have your tools, it’s time to remove the pavers that are out of place.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or putty knife to pry up the uneven pavers.
- If they’re stuck, gently wiggle them back and forth to loosen them.
- For pavers that are really tight, use a rubber mallet to tap around the edges until they loosen.
- Be careful not to crack or chip the pavers when lifting them.
Do I need to remove more than just the uneven pavers?
It depends. If one paver is slightly out of place, you can probably fix just that one. But if multiple pavers are shifting, it’s a good idea to remove the surrounding ones to ensure a stable and level repair.
Step 3: Check the Base and Fix It
Once the pavers are removed, take a good look at the base underneath. This is where most shifting problems start.
- If the sand has washed away, add more to fill in the gaps.
- If the area feels soft or unstable, it might need extra support. Add a layer of gravel under the sand for better drainage and stability.
- Use a level to check if the surrounding base is even. If not, smooth it out with fresh sand.
- Compact the base by pressing it down with a tamper or your foot to prevent further settling.
Why does the base matter so much?
The base is what holds everything in place. If it’s not compacted properly, the pavers will shift again over time. Think of it as the foundation for your entire patio or walkway.
Step 4: Put the Pavers Back in Place
Now that the base is solid, it’s time to put the pavers back.
- Carefully place each paver back in its original spot. Try to match them up exactly as they were.
- Check the height – If a paver sits too high, remove some sand. If it’s too low, add more sand and pack it down before setting the paver.
- Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the paver into place so it sits flush with the surrounding ones.
- Continue checking with a level to ensure everything is even.
What if my pavers don’t fit back perfectly?
If a paver is too tight, try adjusting the sand underneath. If gaps are forming, make sure the surrounding pavers are lined up correctly.
Step 5: Fill the Gaps with Sand
Once all the pavers are back in place, you need to secure them by filling the joints with sand.
- Sweep polymeric sand or paver base sand into the cracks between the pavers.
- Use a broom to push the sand into every gap until they’re completely filled.
- If you’re using polymeric sand, lightly spray the surface with a garden hose to activate it. This helps lock the pavers in place.
- Let the sand settle, and if needed, add a second layer for extra strength.
How does sand help keep pavers in place?
Sand locks everything together, preventing shifting and keeping weeds from growing between the pavers. Over time, regular sand can wash away, so using polymeric sand helps make your repair last longer.
Step 6: Compact the Surface and Final Check
Now for the finishing touches!
- Walk over the pavers or use a tamper to help them settle into place.
- Check for any uneven spots – If something feels off, adjust it now before the sand sets.
- Sweep away extra sand so your surface looks clean.
- Give the pavers a final mist of water (if using polymeric sand) and allow them to dry.
How long before I can walk or drive on it?
If you used polymeric sand, wait 24 hours before walking on it and 48 hours before driving over it to ensure everything has fully set.
How to Prevent Pavers from Shifting Again
Now that your pavers are level, here are a few simple ways to keep them in place:
- Check your drainage – Poor drainage can cause sand to wash away. Make sure rainwater flows away from your paver area.
- Use polymeric sand – It holds up better than regular sand and helps prevent shifting.
- Seal your pavers – A paver sealer protects against moisture and helps keep them in place.
- Watch out for tree roots – If nearby trees are pushing up your pavers, you may need to trim the roots.
- Do regular maintenance – Sweep and inspect your pavers a few times a year to catch small shifts before they turn into bigger problems.
Fixing a few pavers is a great DIY project, but sometimes the problem is bigger than it looks. If your pavers keep shifting, the base is severely damaged, or you have major drainage issues, it might be time to call in the experts.
At Panda Pavers, we specialize in professional paver installation and repair. Whether you need a small fix or a full patio overhaul, our team ensures a durable, high-quality finish. Contact us today to get your pavers looking perfect again!
How to Prevent Pavers from Shifting Again
Now that you’ve taken the time to fix your uneven pavers, the last thing you want is for them to shift again. While pavers are designed to be durable, they can move over time if not properly maintained. The key to keeping them in place is preventative care—small, simple steps that help maintain a stable foundation and prevent common issues like sinking, lifting, or shifting.
Below, we’ll go over some essential maintenance tips to ensure your pavers stay even and in great shape for years to come.
1. Check for Drainage Issues
One of the biggest reasons pavers shift is water erosion. When rainwater or irrigation seeps between the pavers, it can wash away the sand and base material underneath, creating weak spots where pavers sink or shift.
How do I know if I have a drainage issue?
- Puddles form on or around your pavers after it rains.
- Sand between the pavers frequently washes away.
- Certain pavers sink over time, even after being leveled.
How can I fix poor drainage?
- Adjust the slope: If water collects in one area, the pavers may need to be slightly sloped to encourage proper runoff.
- Install a drainage system: French drains or catch basins can help direct water away from your paver surface.
- Use gravel under the base: A compacted gravel layer beneath the sand helps improve drainage and prevent erosion.
- Seal the pavers: A good paver sealer repels water and keeps sand from washing out.
If you’re seeing major drainage issues, it may be worth consulting a professional to install a proper drainage solution.
2. Use High-Quality Polymeric Sand
The sand between your pavers does more than just fill the gaps—it locks the pavers in place, preventing them from shifting. If you’ve used standard sand, you may notice it washes away after heavy rain or high foot traffic.
What is polymeric sand, and why is it better?
Polymeric sand is a specialized jointing sand mixed with a bonding agent that hardens when activated with water. This helps keep pavers firmly in place, reducing movement and preventing weeds from growing between them.
How do I apply polymeric sand properly?
- Sweep it into the joints: Pour polymeric sand over the surface and use a broom to fill the gaps between pavers.
- Compact the pavers: Use a tamper or walk over them to help the sand settle.
- Mist the area with water: Use a garden hose to lightly dampen the sand, activating the binding agent. Avoid over-saturating it, as too much water can wash the sand away.
- Allow it to cure: It takes about 24 hours for polymeric sand to fully set. During this time, avoid heavy foot traffic or driving on the surface.
If you notice sand washing away or gaps forming between pavers, reapplying polymeric sand can help restore stability.
3. Seal Your Pavers to Protect Against Moisture and Shifting
Applying a paver sealer is one of the best long-term ways to keep your pavers looking good and staying in place. Sealing not only protects the surface from moisture and stains but also helps lock the joint sand in place, preventing erosion.
Why should I seal my pavers?
- Prevents water damage: Stops moisture from seeping into the base material.
- Keeps sand in place: Reduces the chances of sand washing out of the joints.
- Protects against stains: Oil, dirt, and spills are easier to clean.
- Enhances the look: Some sealers add a slight sheen that makes pavers look richer in color.
How often should I reseal pavers?
For most paver surfaces, sealing every 2–3 years is ideal. However, high-traffic areas like driveways may need it more frequently.
How do I properly seal my pavers?
- Clean the surface: Sweep and wash away dirt, debris, and any weeds growing between pavers.
- Let them dry completely: Sealing pavers when they’re damp can cause issues with adhesion.
- Apply the sealer evenly: Use a roller or sprayer to distribute the sealer over the entire surface.
- Allow drying time: Most sealers need at least 24 hours to fully cure before foot traffic resumes.
Choosing the right sealer depends on the type of pavers you have. Some enhance the natural color, while others provide a more natural, matte finish.
4. Watch Out for Tree Roots
If you have trees near your patio or walkway, their roots can push up pavers over time, causing uneven surfaces. This is common with large, mature trees whose roots spread widely underground.
How can I prevent tree roots from lifting my pavers?
- Choose the right trees: If you’re adding new landscaping, select trees with less aggressive root systems, like dogwoods or redbuds.
- Use a root barrier: Installing a root barrier (a buried plastic or metal sheet) can help direct roots away from your paver area.
- Trim roots carefully: If a root is pushing up your pavers, trimming it may be an option—but be careful, as cutting too many roots can harm the tree.
- Use deeper base material: A thicker, compacted base with gravel can make it harder for roots to displace pavers.
If tree roots have already lifted your pavers, you’ll need to remove the affected ones, trim or redirect the roots, and re-level the area.
5. Inspect Your Pavers Occasionally
Even with proper installation and maintenance, natural settling can still occur. Checking your pavers regularly allows you to catch small issues before they turn into major problems.
How often should I check my pavers?
A quick inspection every few months can help you spot problem areas early. After extreme weather—like heavy rain, snow, or freezing temperatures—it’s a good idea to check for any shifting.
What should I look for?
- Uneven surfaces: Catching small shifts early prevents bigger repairs later.
- Cracked or damaged pavers: Replacing broken pavers as soon as possible prevents more from cracking.
- Gaps in the sand joints: If the sand between your pavers is washing away, reapply polymeric sand to keep them secure.
- Signs of water pooling: This could indicate drainage issues that need to be addressed.
Keeping your pavers from shifting doesn’t require a lot of work, but a little routine maintenance can go a long way. By making sure your drainage is in check, using high-quality materials like polymeric sand, sealing the surface, keeping an eye on tree roots, and doing regular inspections, you can extend the life of your pavers and keep your outdoor space looking great.
When to Call a Professional
If your pavers keep shifting or you’re dealing with a bigger issue (like major erosion or tree roots causing serious damage), it might be time to call in the pros.
At Panda Pavers, we specialize in expert paver installation and repair to keep your outdoor spaces looking great. If you need help fixing uneven pavers or want to upgrade your driveway, patio, or walkway, contact us today for a professional touch!
By following these steps, you can keep your pavers level and your outdoor space safe and beautiful for years to come!