Repair and Replace Paving Stones

Paving stones and patio blocks can fall prey to the effects of tree roots, weather and other damage-causing issues. It is not a complicated job to fix problem pavers. The hardest part is getting the first paver or patio stone up to get started. The basic idea is to remove the pavers that have settled down or heaved up and leveling out the ground underneath so the stone will match its mates when it is returned to its spot. To get the job done you will need a shovel, crowbar or screwdriver, trowel, a level, rubber mallet and a small bag of sand, depending on the trouble.

Instructions:
1. Lift a paver or patio block from the area that has become sunken or raised above the rest. While it might be easier to life a block from the outer edge, it is best to start by lifting a block in the center of the problem area. The easiest way to achieve this is to slide the crowbar or screwdriver under one edge of a block and lift. Do not lift two edges instead of just one edge or you risk cracking the block.

2. Get a good grip on the block and pull it out of place. Set the block off to the side.

3. Continue lifting the adjacent blocks until all of the blocks in the problem area have been removed and set aside. I suggest lifting one extra row, one that is at the correct level, so everything can match up when the blocks are replaced.

4. Examine the ground where the blocks had been. If the ground is too high, remove the excess material. If the ground has settled, add some sand to level the earth. If the ground is mainly clay, I suggest removing at least three inches of the clay and replacing it with sand.

5. When you are finished balancing the height of the ground, use the level to be sure the ground is as flat as you believe. Make any necessary adjustments to be sure the area is level, and check again until you are satisfied.

6. Put the pavers back in place, working in reverse order as you did in removing the blocks. Use the rubber mallet to tamp them gently into place.

7. Fill the joints, or spaces between the blocks, with sand.