(Newswire.net — December 6, 2019) — Loose pavers are not only aesthetically unappealing but also a safety hazard. Over time, your pavers are likely to get lopsided and wiggle loose when the sand settles into the ground and gaps are created in the sand underneath. Knowing how to fix loose pavers requires you to understand why they’re loose in the first place.
How to Fix Loose Pavers
Whether you have an oil stain on your pavers or they are loose, it is important to properly take care of them. In this article, we’ll discuss why pavers might get and how to repair loose pavers. Ultimately, you should be able to identify the reason they’re loose and fix the issue.
Reasons Your Pavers Are Loose
Too much space between pavers: If during the installation process, you didn’t use spacers to ensure the space between the pavers is uniform, chances are there might be too much space between them. Nice pavers that are lined up correctly close to each other are more than just for looks, they also make for a strong and stable patio.
Not compacting the sand base: Compacting the sand beneath your pavers goes a long way toward ensuring the surface is firm and solid. If you opted to borrow your neighbors Saint Bernard rather than use a mechanical compactor, your pavers may have dislodged due to a shifting base.
Skimping on filler sand: Using a generous amount of filler sand helps to keep the entire ensemble solid. If you skimp on the sand, it may not be enough to keep the pavers in place as the ground freezes and thaws.
Ignoring edges: Paver patios usually start wearing around the edges. The center of the patio is often well-protected while the edges are vulnerable to wear. Therefore, if you are interested or currently have a paver driveway, make sure you take time to properly install edging. The edging can be bricks placed on the edge, metal, performed plastic or lumber. You can add the edging before or after layering the pavers. The most important point is that you don’t ignore it.
Potentially poor drainage: Industry professionals say to make sure your patio pavers are properly inclined. While snow and rain are unavoidable, you can prevent the pooling of water. Consider a slight slope away from the home.
How To Install Patio Stones
Here’s a look at how to repair loose pavers:
- Pull out the loose paver and add small amounts of sand at a time.
- Spread the sand out to form a flat layer before tamping it down. Make sure you form a strong base for the paver by making it even and solid.
- Use a level to make sure the sand is flat and even
- Place the paver in the space, checking to make sure it’s at the same level as pavers around it
- Then adjust the amount of sand as needed
- Gently tap the paver in place and seat it in the sand using a rubber mallet
- Confirm that the paver is even and lined up with the surrounding pavers.
Bottom Line
If you are remodeling your home, you may want to consider taking a look at the condition your pavers are in. With the tips mentioned, you now know how to fix loose pavers. If you’re not completely confident you can go it on your own, be sure to hire professional patio installers to help. An expert mason knows all the tricks of the trade and will have the right tools to do the job right the first time.