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The most common causes of sunken pavers are poor base preparation and insufficient compaction. The problem could also be how your pavers were installed. If the soil beneath your patio or walkway wasn't compacted, it will pull pavers down as it settles. Additionally, using bare soil instead of making a paver bed with compacted gravel and sand can cause sinking over time. To fix sunken pavers, consider recompacting the base and addressing any drainage or erosion issues in the area.

The stones do not work well on uneven ground. If the stones are not buried into the ground and made level upon installation, they almost certainly will shift or crack on uneven ground. Additionally, rainwater or water from sprinklers can run under the edge of an uneven paver, causing erosion. In a freeze and thaw cycle, trapped water under the paver can cause the problem to worsen by shifting the stepping stones around. Use a bubble level to make sure the ground under each paver is as even as possible, even if the nearby ground is uneven.

It is possible to DIY complete hardscaping projects, but in most cases, hiring a professional is best to get the job done correctly. Hardscaping—including installing patios, decks, retaining walls, walkways, and water features—is challenging and time-consuming, so the money you spend on a professional is typically worth it. Not only will the quality be better, but you could avoid problems that come along with a lack of hardscaping experience, like drainage issues that can lead to costly foundation damage and leaks in your home.

In most cases, driveway repair is worth the investment. Your driveway is one of the first things people see when they look at your home, so repairing cracks, chips, and potholes can improve your home’s curb appeal and overall value. Repairing your driveway is also almost always more affordable than replacing it entirely—an average of $1,765 compared to the cost of replacing a driveway, which typically costs around $5,000.