Find out why your block paving is sinking and what you can do about it.
Block paving is a popular choice for driveways and patios. If you've ever had a driveway, patio, or path made of block paving, you know how great it can look when it's first installed. But over time, you may notice that some of the blocks are starting to sink. This can be a frustrating problem. There are several reasons why block paving may sink. This article will discuss why your block paving might be dropping and what you can do about it.
Why is my Block Paving Sinking?
1. Why has my Block Paving Sank? 2. How to fix Sinking Block Paving - Plan of Action. 3. Sinking Block Paving - Summary.
1. Why has my Block Paving Sank?
First, let's examine why your pavers might be sinking.
Poorly Prepared Block Paving Base
Block Paving is often chosen for driveways. So, as you would expect, heavy vehicles will drive over them several times a day. The weight of these vehicles can cause the driveway to drop or crack if the foundation is not strong enough.
Unfortunately, most block paving sinkage is due to insufficient support from a sub-base caused by the ground not being adequately prepared before the paving. If the ground is not level or compacted enough, it can cause the paving to sink. The driveway surface must rest on firm foundations for the paving to be level and stable.
Lack of Edging
When designing your block paved surface, it's vital to place edging along your driveway's sides correctly. The idea of edging is to keep the block paved surface in one place and prevent it from moving around or shifting. Over time, this can help prolong your driveway's life and keep it looking its best. If you do not put edging in place, you will end up with a cracked, uneven, and sinking block paving that can be a trip hazard for people walking on it.
Unnoticed Implications
Sinking Block Paving can occur due to some implications that go unnoticed until they cause severe, visible concerns. For example, a leaking pipe under the block paved surface. Over time, it may affect the soil beneath and the sub-base, causing it to dip and sink where the ground has become saturated.
Loss of Joining Sand
One of the factors that block paving relies on is the friction of the sand that keeps its structure. Losing too much will cause the surface to sink. Unfortunately, all block paved surfaces will eventually lose some sand due to weathering, cleaning, or everyday use, but you can prevent this by reÂsharpening the joints yearly.
2. How to Fix Sinking Block Paving - Plan of Action
Basically, you have two choices when it comes to sorting out a Sinking Block Paving. One is to re-lay the affected area, and the other is to install a new surface.
Re-laying Sunken Paving
When re-laying sunken paving, removing the paving bricks you want to re-lay is the first and most challenging job. This can be difficult and time-consuming, but it is essential to conduct the re-laying process correctly. With patience and care, you can remove the old paving bricks and prepare the area for the new ones.
The following job is to correct the level of your paving. At this stage, you need to make sure that you find the reason for your sinking pavers. If poor drainage is the cause, you will need to contact your local landscaping company, like Yew Tree Landscapes, that will address the issue professionally. Failing to address the problem could lead to further damage down the road.
Once the area is level, and the cause of the sinking is resolved, you can relay block paving. Remember to check that the blocks are clean, dry and free of excess sand. Use a soft hand brush to remove debris and lay the new blocks tight to the remaining paving bricks. This will ensure a secure and level surface.
Please do not forget to re-sand the repaired area to finish the job.
Installing a New Surface
Another option is to consider a new paving solution. If you are a big fan of them, you can stick to paving blocks or opt for a new surface. Perhaps you should consider a permeable paving option, like gaining popularity among homeowners across the UK -Resin Bound.
It offers a variety of benefits and can be customized to fit the needs of any property. Please click here to read more about the advantages of Resin Bound Surfaces. You can be confident you will not be inquiring why your block paving sunk when you get Resin Bound surface. Feel free to check out our Resin Bound Installation Guide to ensure it is installed correctly from start to finish.
3. Sinking Block Paving - Summary
Nothing is worse and less appealing than a driveway or patio with sunken or uneven paving. It can not only be unsightly, but it can also be dangerous. Paving that has sunken or is uneven can cause trip hazards and lead to accidents. Not only is it important to have level paving for safety reasons, but it can also impact your property value.
If you notice any changes in your driveway, it's essential to check them. You can do it yourself if you have enough time, will and expertise, or you can involve a professional to take a look as soon as possible. To eliminate the problem of sinking block paving, you take one of the two ways: re-lay the affected block paving area or install a new paving surface. The choice is yours.
Do you need help with your Sinking Block Paving
Take the first step and get in touch with Yew Tree Landscapes - your local paving contractor in Hampshire. We would love to hear from you and discuss the best solution for your Sinking Block Paving Issue.
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