The reason paver repairs San Diego are so popular is because nobody wants to have an ugly patio or driveway. Regardless of how well you care for your pavers, they will need some touch ups every now and then. One of the most common issue you will have to deal with as a home owner is loose pavers.
Loose pavers are visually disastrous and can also be hazardous for people walking by. At times you may start dealing with loose pavers immediately after a new installation. In most cases, loose pavers are caused by the shift of the sand bed pavers lie on. There are also many circumstances that can cause pavers to become loose. But how do you handle paver repairs San Diego in this case?
Why pavers get loose?
Before we cover how to fix loose pavers, we need first to understand why pavers get loose. Knowing what causes the problem can help you address the main issue and avoid future problems. Here are some potential reasons why your pavers are loose.
- There was no adherence to uniform spacing during installation. This is common when a spacer was not used. There will be a lot of space between pavers. What you need to remember is that close-tight pavers are not for looks alone but also make the surface stronger.
- The sand base wasn’t impacted properly. When the sand bed is not firm, the soil will start moving and as a result cause the pavers to shift or even sink.
- The contractor skimped on the filler sand. When there is not enough sand between pavers they will certainly shift.
- The pavers are too old. As they age, pavers wear around the edges. This may cause them to get loose.
- Poor drainage. When there is poor drainage, the pavers will absorb more water and this will damage them.
Fixing the loose pavers
Adding more sand and ensuring the base is firm is the only way to fix the issue of loose pavers. Additional sand helps strengthen the base and keeps the pavers in place. You should do the following:
- Remove the loose pavers using a screwdriver and spread sand into a flat layer. Tamp the sand until it is solid and even. This creates a stronger base.
- Reinsert the paver and use a rubber mallet to tap the paver into place until it is the same height as the surrounding pavers.
Pavers need regular maintenance. Every now and then you will find yourself fixing broken, loose or sunken pavers. To avoid spending too much time in paver repairs San Diego, you should leave the installation and repair work to the professionals. They have the tools and skills to do a great job.
