What To Do When Your Patio Starts To Sink Or Shift, Patio Repair

Do you see dips, loose joints, or a wobble underfoot when you walk across the slabs? The right approach to patio repair depends on the cause, and with a clear plan you can stop movement, tidy the finish, and protect the base so the problem does not return.

1. What To Do
When Your Patio
Starts To Sink Or Shift, Patio Repair
Identify the Cause of Movement – Patios often sink or shift
due to thin or poorly compacted sub-bases, water pooling
and washout, tree roots, or freeze-thaw cycles. Correcting
the root cause is essential before attempting repairs.
Spot Early Warning Signs – Gaps in joints, rocking slabs,
pooling water, and uneven levels are early indicators of
instability. Simple checks with a level, mallet, or after rain can
help determine the extent of the issue.
DIY Fixes vs. Professional Relaying – Small, localized
problems can often be repaired by lifting, rebedding, and
repointing slabs. Larger failures, widespread sinking, or poor
drainage usually require professional patio relaying for a
long-term solution.
Prevent Future Issues with Proper Drainage & Materials – A
well-compacted sub-base, consistent falls for water runoff,
solid edge restraints, and modern materials like polymer
mortars or flexible jointing compounds improve durability
and prevent repeat problems.
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