Home Garden

Repairing Pavers From Water Subsiding

Paving stones, also called pavers, are available in many shapes and materials. Brick is commonly used for pavers, but sandstone, cobblestone, limestone and slate are just a few others. They are found in locations such as walkways, driveways and patios. When properly set, pavers will stay put for years, but they are vulnerable to water, which works at the joints and causes erosion. You can repair damaged pavers yourself and the structure will last for many more years.

Things You'll Need

  • Power washer
  • Sand
  • Portland cement
  • Bucket
  • Grout bag
  • Spray bottle
  • Triangle trowel
  • Tarp (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the pavers using a power washer. Test the power washer on an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't chip the pavers. Wash slowly, spending several minutes on each 3-foot-square section. Hold the wand about 3 feet from the ground and at a 30-degree angle. Allow the pavers to dry before proceeding.

    • 2

      Examine the ground between the pavers. Note the size and color of the sand. Find this sand by searching building supply stores or even gravel pits.

    • 3

      Mix the sand with equal parts Portland cement in an empty bucket.

    • 4

      Fill a grout bag until it is at least half full with the mixture. The grout bag works like an icing cake bag and allows you to work the cement between the pavers.

    • 5

      Mist the existing grout between the pavers with water from a spray bottle.

    • 6

      Squeeze the cement between the pavers and between any broken pavers so they all lay flat.

    • 7

      Allow the cement to dry until it is gray and no longer shiny.

    • 8

      Wipe across the surface with a triangular trowel to remove excess cement and make the cement flush with the remaining surface.

    • 9

      Mist the cement three or four times a day to keep it moist as it cures. If it is hot, cover the cement with a tarp or plastic to keep it moist. It will take three days for the cement to cure. Avoid using the area during this time.