How to Keep Pavers from Sinking

By Jorge Melo

Introduction

“Water always wins if you let it.” In our 35 years of business, that line has proven true time and again. Whether it’s a driveway, patio, or walkway, sinking pavers almost always come down to what’s happening underneath the surface. The good news? You can stop it before it starts.

If you’ve been wondering how to stop patio pavers from sinking, the answer lies in how you build your base, manage drainage, and maintain your hardscaping over time. A strong, compacted base with the right materials and slope is what keeps your investment solid. In Massachusetts, where freeze-thaw cycles and coastal moisture create constant ground movement, taking these extra steps matters even more.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about hardscaping services and patio paver installation, from the materials beneath your feet to how to fix sunken spots if they appear.

Why do pavers sink, and how do I prevent it?

1. Pavers sinking in areas

Sinking pavers mean the base wasn’t properly compacted, or water has washed away the support underneath. If you’re already seeing dips, it’s time for hardscape repair and maintenance.

2. A paver patio with poor drainage

Without proper grading, water will pool and seep below your patio. Over time, that leads to erosion. Always make sure your hardscape installation plan includes a slope that directs water away from your home.

3. Weed growth in the joints

Weeds love open joints and unsealed sand. Polymeric sand and geotextile fabric beneath your base help prevent this problem.

4. A paver patio with trip hazards

Uneven or separated pavers come from settling or improper spacing. Proper compaction and edge restraints keep your surface even and safe.

5. A leaning edge

Edges without support can drop or tilt outward. Use edge restraints pinned into the base material to keep everything locked tight.

How to fix sinking pavers

Step 1: Fix the underlying problem

Before you repair or replace any pavers, you need to find the cause. Sinking happens when the ground shifts from poor compaction, improper drainage, or water erosion. In Massachusetts, this often comes from winter frost or heavy rainfall soaking into weak subsoil. If the area near your patio collects water, start there—fix the grade or add drainage for hardscape patios before resetting any stones.

Step 2: Pry out the pavers

Use a flat screwdriver or pry bar to carefully lift the sinking pavers. Work slowly to avoid chipping edges. If you plan to reuse them, clean off any dirt or debris before resetting.

Step 3: Clean and repair the base layer

Once the pavers are removed, clear out all debris, roots, and loose sand. If you see soft or muddy soil, that’s your problem spot. Dig a little deeper and rebuild the base. Add compacted gravel and sand in layers, tamping firmly after every few inches. This is the foundation that keeps pavers from moving or sinking over time.

Step 4: Add crushed stone dust

Crushed stone dust or clean gravel provides stability for patio paver installation. Avoid using regular dirt or sand—it traps moisture and freezes unevenly. The best base for patio pavers in Massachusetts includes a blend of stone dust and dense grade. Compact each layer evenly so the base doesn’t settle later.

Step 5: Replace the pavers

Reinstall your pavers on the new level surface. Tap them gently into place with a rubber mallet, checking that they line up with the surrounding area. If one sits low, lift it, add more sand, and reset it until the surface feels uniform.

Step 6: Sweep in polymeric sand

Once your pavers are set, sweep polymeric sand into the joints. This locks them together and helps prevent pavers from shifting. Lightly mist the surface with water to activate the bonding agents—but don’t flood it. When dry, polymeric sand also blocks weeds and keeps your hardscape cleaner for longer.

Base material for pavers

A strong base is the difference between a paver project that lasts decades and one that sinks in a year. Always use angular, compactable stone—not round river rock. In Massachusetts, frost heave and thaw cycles put constant pressure on your hardscape. Using a deep, well-compacted gravel base helps absorb that movement.

Compacting base material for pavers

Compaction is what makes or breaks your project. Every 3 inches of base material should be compacted before adding more. Use a plate compactor, not hand tampers, for consistent results. Lightly moisten the material as you go to help it lock together.

Fixing uneven patio pavers

If your patio has small dips or uneven sections, you can fix them without tearing up the whole surface. Remove the affected pavers, level the base again, and reset them. Don’t just add more sand on top—that’s a temporary fix that won’t last through a Massachusetts winter.

Hardscaping in Fairhaven, MA and Mattapoisett, MA

Whether you need masonry in Fairhaven, MA or hardscaping in Mattapoisett, MA, the same principles apply: drainage, compaction, and base preparation. Coastal towns deal with unique challenges like salt, freeze-thaw cycles, and uneven subsoils. That’s why professional hardscaping services are essential for long-term results that stay level and beautiful.

FAQs about hardscaping

What is the best base for patio pavers?

A compacted gravel base topped with a one-inch layer of stone dust provides the best support and drainage.

How often should I seal patio pavers?

Every 3–5 years, depending on exposure to sunlight and salt. Sealing helps preserve color and prevents staining.

Can I fix uneven patio pavers myself?

Yes. Most small dips can be fixed by lifting the pavers, re-leveling the base, and reinstalling.

Does New England Tree & Landscape offer hardscape repair and maintenance?

Yes, we provide full hardscape repair and maintenance services across Massachusetts, including patios, walkways, and driveways.

Does New England Tree & Landscape offer snow removal?

Yes. Along with outdoor living space design and hardscaping services, we also provide professional snow removal to keep your property safe year-round.

FAQ about New England Tree & Landscape

Do you offer free estimates for patio paver installation and hardscape repair?Yes. We provide free, no-pressure estimates with a site visit, grade check, and a written scope that outlines base depth, edge restraints, and drainage for hardscape patios.

Are you licensed and insured for hardscaping services in Massachusetts?

Yes.

How do you keep patio pavers from sinking through New England winters? We design for freeze-thaw with the best base for patio pavers, compact in measured lifts, set the correct pitch, and specify geotextile or geogrid where soils require reinforcement.

Can you fix uneven patio pavers without rebuilding my entire patio?

Yes. We can target problem zones, reset bedding, and recompact to prevent pavers from shifting while preserving sound areas.

Do you handle design as well as installation?

Yes. We offer outdoor living space design, including patio layouts, walkways, steps, lighting, and drainage plans that integrate with planting and lawn areas.

When do you recommend sealing pavers, and can you do it for me?

We recommend sealing after the first season once joints have cured, then every three to five years, depending on exposure. We can clean, re-sand, and seal as part of hardscape repair and maintenance.

Do you offer snow removal in addition to hardscaping services?

Yes. We provide residential and commercial snow removal with plowing, sanding, and ice control that protects your hardscape surfaces.

How soon can you start, and what is the typical project timeline?

Most projects begin within a standard seasonal window after permitting and materials confirmation. A typical patio paver installation runs a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on size, access, and weather.

How do I schedule an estimate or ask questions?

You can call 508-763-8000, email us at request@newenglandtreeandlandscape.com, or use the contact form on our website to request a visit. Our team will confirm a time, inspect the site, and deliver a clear proposal.

Conclusion

To keep pavers from sinking, you need a solid foundation, proper compaction, and a plan for drainage. When done right, your patio can last for decades—even through New England winters. If you’re ready to upgrade your hardscaping in Fairhaven, MA or hardscaping in Mattapoisett, MA, contact New England Tree & Landscape for expert design and installation. We’ll make sure your patio paver installation is built to last, season after season.

Citations

“How to Keep Pavers from Sinking.” How to Hardscape, 2020.

“Repair Sunken Pavers.” Instructables, by jeff-o, Autodesk, 2025.

Nafziger, Art. “5 Paver Patio Problems: Are These Common Issues Legitimate Concerns?” Earth, Turf & Wood Inc., 2018.

“How to Fix Sinking Pavers.” 9 Brothers Building Supply, 2025.

Garcia, David. “Why Do My Pavers Keep Sinking?” DPG Pavers & Design, 2024.