Why Your Paver Patio is Sinking and How to Prevent It

Paver patios are a great alternative to traditional concrete slabs, and they offer much more versatility in terms of design and aesthetics. They are modular in nature and can be arranged in a wide variety of patterns, colours and styles to suit any landscape. However, they also present a unique set of challenges, and one of these challenges is that they can sometimes be susceptible to sinking. In this post, we take a closer look at how to identify if your paver patio is sinking, why this may happen and how to prevent it.

Signs that Your Paver Patio is Sinking

While it may not be immediately obvious that your paver patio is sinking, there are usually telltale signs that this might be happening. Some signs to keep an eye out for include:

• Uneven Surfaces: If you find that your paver patio is becoming increasingly uneven when you walk on it, this might be an indicator that certain parts are sinking. Visible dips in the patio would be further confirmation that this is the case.
• Loose Pavers: Similarly, if certain pavers feel loose when you are walking on them, it could be an indicator that they are no longer properly secured in place and may be sinking.
• Cracks: Cracks in the surrounding structures or edges of the paver patio might also be a sign that the patio as a whole is becoming unstable.

Causes of Paver Patio Sinking

There are many different possible causes of paver patio sinking, including:

Poor Base Preparation

If your paver patio was laid without adequate preparation, this might lead to instability in the foundation. For instance, if the ground was not excavated to an adequate depth or if the base materials were not properly compacted, the patio might sink or shift over time. To prevent this, ensure that you take proper steps to build a strong foundation for your paver patio before laying the first paver. If you are engaging a contractor to lay the patio, ensure that they are reliable.

Drainage Issues

Poor drainage planning can also lead to the sinking of a paver patio. As water accumulates under the surface of the pavers, it can erode away the base material and the underlying soil. This can lead to voids that can cause pavers to shift or settle unevenly. Over time, this can lead to dips and structural damage that might manifest in the form of a sinking paver patio. To prevent this from happening, ensure that you have a proper drainage system in place for your paver patio.

Get Your Pavers from Fulton Brickyard

Fulton Brickyard is the number one manufacturer and supplier of bricks and paving supplies in Melbourne. We have everything you need for landscaping and outdoor design, ranging from sandstone pavers and terracotta pavers to concrete sleepers. Contact us today for a free quote for all of your paving and landscaping supply needs!