Why Are My Pavers Sinking or Settling in Orlando?
- localpaversorlando
- Nov 30
- 12 min read
Pavers sink because the base underneath failed. Not because pavers are bad. Not because Florida's climate is hard on pavers. Because someone cut corners on base preparation.
The 5 main causes of sinking pavers:
Base too thin (3-4 inches instead of 6-7 inches)
Poor compaction (base wasn't compacted properly)
Wrong base material (sand instead of crushed aggregate)
No geotextile fabric (soil mixing with base, creating voids)
Water erosion (poor drainage washing away base material)
Good news: If you catch it early (1-2 pavers sinking), repair costs $300-$800.
Bad news: If you ignore it and 20%+ of pavers are sinking, you're looking at $5,000-$12,000 for complete tear-out and proper reinstall.
In this guide:
How to diagnose WHY your pavers are sinking
DIY inspection checklist (what to look for)
Repair vs replace decision framework
Exact cost ranges for Orlando
How to prevent it from happening again
When to call a professional
First step: Figure out what caused the sinking so you fix the ROOT problem, not just the symptom.
How Do You Know If Pavers Are Actually Sinking vs Normal Settling?
New paver installations settle slightly in the first year. This is normal and expected:
Settling: 1/4 inch or less
Happens evenly across entire area
No individual low spots
No water pooling
Pavers still feel solid when you walk on them
Fix: Just add polymeric sand to joints. Cost: $100-$300.
Problem Settling (Sinking):
This is NOT normal and indicates base failure:
Settling: 1/2 inch or more (you can see/feel the dip)
Happens in specific spots, not evenly
Low spots collect water after rain
Pavers may rock or feel loose
Gap appearing under edge restraints
Can see where pavers have dropped compared to surrounding area
This requires repair, not just more sand.
Quick Test - The Water Test:
Run hose on pavers for 2-3 minutes
Turn off water and watch where it flows
Water should flow toward street/drainage, NOT pool in spots
If water pools in low spots: You have settling/sinking problem
If water flows off evenly: You're probably OK
Quick Test - The Level Test:
Get 4-foot level from hardware store
Place across area where you think pavers sank
Check gap under level
Gap under 1/4 inch: Minor settling, probably OK Gap 1/4 to 1/2 inch: Borderline, monitor it Gap over 1/2 inch: Definite problem, needs repair
Photo: Minor normal settling (acceptable)
Photo: Obvious sinking with visible low spot
Photo: Level showing gap measurement
What Causes Pavers to Sink in Orlando? (5 Main Reasons)
Cause #1: Base Was Too Thin
What proper base looks like:
6-7 inches of compacted crushed aggregate
Plus 1 inch stone dust on top
Total depth: 7-8 inches
What cheap contractors do:
3-4 inches of base material (or less)
Sometimes just sand, no aggregate at all
Total depth: 4-5 inches
Why thin base fails:
Not enough material to distribute weight
Vehicle traffic compresses thin base quickly
Orlando's sandy soil has nothing solid underneath to support thin base
Base sinks into soft soil below
How to diagnose: If pavers installed less than 5 years ago and already sinking, almost always thin base.
Cause #2: Base Wasn't Compacted Properly
What proper compaction looks like:
5,000+ pound plate compactor used
Base installed in 2-3 inch layers
Each layer compacted separately (multiple passes)
Base feels rock-solid when you walk on it before pavers placed
What cheap contractors do:
Dump all base at once (no layers)
One quick pass with lightweight compactor
Or no compaction at all
Base feels slightly squishy when walked on
Why poor compaction fails:
Base compresses over time under weight (should have been pre-compacted)
Creates air pockets and voids
Uneven density = uneven settling
Takes 1-3 years to show up (seems fine at first)
How to diagnose: If sinking happened gradually over 2-5 years after installation, likely poor compaction.
Cause #3: Wrong Base Material Used
Proper base materials:
Crushed angular aggregate (sharp edges interlock)
#57 stone or 3/4 inch crushed limestone
Irregular shapes that lock together when compacted
Wrong materials contractors use:
Round river gravel (rolls around, doesn't lock)
Pure sand (compresses and washes away)
Recycled concrete chunks (breaks down, inconsistent)
Mixed materials (compacts unevenly)
Why wrong materials fail:
Round gravel can't create stable base (like trying to stack bowling balls)
Sand compresses under weight and washes away in rain
Mixed materials have different compression rates
How to diagnose: If you can excavate and see round gravel or pure sand under pavers, that's your problem.
Cause #4: No Geotextile Fabric Under Base
Cause #1: Base Was Too Thin
What proper base looks like:
6-7 inches of compacted crushed aggregate
Plus 1 inch stone dust on top
Total depth: 7-8 inches
What cheap contractors do:
3-4 inches of base material (or less)
Sometimes just sand, no aggregate at all
Total depth: 4-5 inches
Why thin base fails:
Not enough material to distribute weight
Vehicle traffic compresses thin base quickly
Orlando's sandy soil has nothing solid underneath to support thin base
Base sinks into soft soil below
How to diagnose: If pavers installed less than 5 years ago and already sinking, almost always thin base.
Cause #5: Water Erosion from Poor Drainage
How water causes sinking:
Heavy Florida rain flows under pavers
Water washes away base material (especially sand)
Creates voids and gaps in base
Pavers drop into voids
Usually happens near downspouts, pool splash areas, or low spots
Common drainage problems in Orlando:
No slope away from house (water pools)
Downspouts dumping directly onto pavers
Pool splash constantly soaking one area
Sprinkler heads aimed at paver edges
No drainage channels for heavy rain
How to diagnose: If sinking is worse near downspouts, pool edges, or specific water sources, it's erosion.
Orlando Reality: We get 50+ inches of rain per year, plus afternoon thunderstorms that dump 2-3 inches in 30 minutes. Poor drainage will destroy even good base prep over time.
How to Diagnose Why YOUR Pavers Are Sinking (Step-by-Step)
You can figure this out without hiring anyone. Here's how:
Step 1: Measure How Much Pavers Sank
Use level or straightedge
Measure deepest point of sinking
Less than 1/2 inch = minor issue, maybe repairable
1/2 to 1 inch = moderate issue, repair possible
Over 1 inch = major issue, likely needs replacement
Step 2: Count How Many Areas Are Sinking
Walk entire paver area and note every low spot:
1-3 small spots (under 10 sq ft each) = Localized problem, repairable
4-10 spots scattered around = Widespread problem, may need replacement
Entire sections sinking = Definitely needs replacement
Rule of thumb: If more than 20% of total area is affected, replacement makes more financial sense than repair.
Step 3: Check When Pavers Were Installed
Less than 3 years ago = Contractor cut corners (thin base or poor compaction)
3-7 years ago = Probably poor compaction or wrong materials
7-15 years ago = Could be normal wear, erosion, or all of the above
Over 15 years ago = Pavers may have reached end of life for that installation
Step 4: Look for Water Problems
Check these areas:
□ Are low spots where downspouts discharge?
□ Near pool edge where splash happens?
□ Where sprinklers constantly water?
□ In areas where water naturally flows during rain?
□ Where you see erosion or soil washing away?
If yes to any: Water erosion is at least part of the problem
Step 5: Check for Other Symptoms
Look for these additional signs:
□ Weeds growing everywhere (indicates no fabric)
□ Edge pavers spreading apart (indicates no edge restraints)
□ Pavers rocking when stepped on (indicates thin base)
□ Entire area has settled evenly (indicates soil compaction issue, not just base)
Each symptom gives clues about what was done wrong originally.
Step 6: Excavate One Test Spot (Optional)
If you want to know for sure what's under there:
Remove 4-6 pavers from worst sinking area
Dig down and examine what's underneath
Measure actual base depth (should be 6-7 inches aggregate)
Look at material (should be crushed angular stone, not sand or round gravel)
Check for fabric (should be black fabric at bottom)
This tells you exactly what the problem is.
Visual decision tree showing: Symptoms → Likely Cause → Recommended Action
Should You Repair Sinking Pavers or Replace Everything?
This is the big question. Here's how to decide:
REPAIR Makes Sense When:
✅ Small affected area (less than 10-15% of total)✅ Localized cause (one downspout, one sprinkler head)✅ Rest of pavers are solid (no other problems)✅ Base is thick enough (at least 5-6 inches when you check)✅ Pavers are less than 10 years old✅ Budget is tight (repair costs 1/5 to 1/3 of replacement)
Repair process:
Remove pavers in affected area
Excavate and add proper base material
Re-compact thoroughly
Reset pavers
Re-sand joints
Repair cost for 50 sq ft area: $500-$1,500Timeline: 1-2 days
REPLACE Makes Sense When:
✅ Large affected area (more than 20% of total)✅ Multiple problems (sinking + weeds + edge failure)✅ Base was done completely wrong (all sand, or only 3 inches)✅ Pavers are 15+ years old anyway✅ You want it done right forever (proper base lasts 25-30 years)✅ Problems keep spreading (you've repaired spots before and more keep sinking)
Replacement process:
Remove all pavers
Excavate all old base
Install geotextile fabric
Install 6-7 inches compacted aggregate base properly
Install new pavers with proper edge restraints
Done right this time
Full replacement cost for 400 sq ft driveway: $8,000-$14,000Timeline: 5-7 days
The Math That Might Surprise You:
Scenario: 400 sq ft driveway with 30% sinking
Option A: Repair the 30% (120 sq ft)
Cost today: $2,000-$3,000
But base still thin/wrong under other 70%
More areas will sink in 2-3 years
You'll repair again: $2,000-$3,000
And again: $2,000-$3,000
Total over 5 years: $6,000-$9,000 (and it's STILL not right)
Option B: Replace entire thing properly
Cost today: $10,000-$12,000
Lasts 25-30 years with minimal maintenance
No more sinking repairs
Total over 5 years: $10,000-$12,000
Replace costs only $2,000-$4,000 more but solves problem permanently.
[Decision Matrix Table]
Factor | Repair | Replace |
Affected area | <15% | >20% |
Cost | $500-$3,000 | $8,000-$15,000 |
Timeline | 1-2 days | 5-7 days |
Warranty | 1-2 years | 5-10 years |
Fixes root cause | Sometimes | Always |
Best for | Minor issues | Widespread problems |
What Does Paver Sinking Repair Cost in Orlando?
Small Area Repair (25-50 sq ft):
Remove and reset pavers: $500-$1,000
Includes: excavation, new base material, re-compaction, reset pavers, re-sand
Timeline: 4-8 hours (1 day)
Good for: Single low spot near downspout or isolated area
Medium Area Repair (50-100 sq ft):
Remove and reset pavers: $1,000-$2,000
Includes: Same as above but larger area
Timeline: 1-2 days
Good for: Multiple small spots or one larger sunken section
Large Area Repair (100-200 sq ft):
Remove and reset pavers: $2,000-$4,000
Includes: Substantial base reconstruction
Timeline: 2-3 days
Good for: When 25% of area is affected
Note: At this point, strongly consider full replacement instead
Full Replacement (400 sq ft typical driveway):
Tear out and reinstall properly: $8,000-$14,000
Includes: Complete base prep, fabric, new pavers, edge restraints
Timeline: 5-7 days
Good for: When more than 20-30% has problems
Additional Costs to Consider:
Drainage improvements: $500-$2,000
French drain installation
Regrading for proper slope
Downspout redirection
Essential if water erosion caused sinking
New pavers (if can't match existing): Add $2-$4 per sq ft
Sometimes your old paver style isn't available anymore
May need to replace entire area with new pavers for consistent look
Edge restraint installation (if missing): $800-$1,200
If edges are also failing
Should be done when repairing base
What Local Pavers LLC Charges:
Small repairs (under 50 sq ft): $600-$1,200Medium repairs (50-100 sq ft): $1,200-$2,500Large repairs or replacement: $16-$22 per sq ft fully rebuilt
Free diagnosis included. We'll tell you honestly: repair or replace?
📞 Call (689) 221-5641 for free inspection
Can You Fix Sinking Pavers Yourself or Do You Need a Pro?
DIY Repair (If You're Handy):
When DIY makes sense:
Very small area (under 25 sq ft)
Simple cause (like sprinkler washing away one spot)
You have basic tools
You're comfortable with physical labor
What you need:
Flat pry bar or screwdriver (to remove pavers)
Wheelbarrow
Crushed aggregate base material (not sand)
Hand tamper or rent plate compactor ($80/day)
Stone dust for leveling
Polymeric sand for joints
Level
DIY steps:
Remove pavers in sunken area (mark layout with chalk first)
Excavate sunken base material
Add new crushed aggregate
Compact in 2-inch layers
Add 1 inch stone dust, screed level
Replace pavers in same pattern
Compact pavers with plate compactor
Fill joints with polymeric sand
DIY cost: $150-$400 in materials + tool rental DIY time: 6-12 hours for small area
When You Need a Professional:
❌ Area larger than 50 sq ft (too much work, need equipment)
❌ Multiple areas sinking (indicates systematic problem)
❌ Can't figure out the cause (water? base? soil?)
❌ Pavers are over 10 years old (might as well upgrade while fixing)
❌ HOA requirements (some require licensed contractors)
❌ You need warranty (DIY = no warranty if it fails again)
What pros bring:
Proper equipment (compactors, excavators for larger jobs)
Experience diagnosing root cause
Materials at wholesale cost
Efficiency (done in 1 day vs your weekend)
Warranty on work (1-5 years typically)
Pro repair cost: $500-$2,500 depending on size Pro timeline: 4-8 hours for typical repair
Honest advice:
Small spot (10-20 sq ft) + you're handy = Try DIY Medium spot (50+ sq ft) or multiple areas = Hire pro Large area or base problems = Definitely hire pro
How Do You Prevent Pavers from Sinking After Repair?
If you just repaired sinking pavers, do these 5 things to prevent it happening again:
Prevention #1: Fix Drainage Problems
The biggest cause of repeat sinking is water:
Redirect downspouts AWAY from pavers (at least 6 feet)
Adjust sprinkler heads so they don't spray paver edges
Install drainage channels for heavy rain areas
Regrade soil around pavers to slope away
Consider French drain if persistent water issues
Cost to fix drainage: $200-$2,000 depending on solution needed
Prevention #2: Re-Sand Joints Regularly
Joint sand prevents water from getting under pavers:
Re-sand joints every 3-4 years
Use premium polymeric sand (hardens like weak concrete)
Apply properly during dry weather
Follow manufacturer instructions exactly
Cost: $200-$400 every 3-4 years (or $50 DIY)
Prevention #3: Seal Pavers
Sealing helps but isn't mandatory:
Protects against stains and fading
Helps joint sand last longer
Makes cleaning easier
Reapply every 3-5 years
Cost: $1-2 per sq ft every 3-5 years
Prevention #4: Install/Fix Edge Restraints
If pavers don't have aluminum edge restraints:
Edges will spread over time
Creates instability across entire paver field
Install proper aluminum restraints staked every 12-16 inches
Cost: $8-12 per linear foot (one-time fix)
Prevention #5: Monitor and Act Early
Don't ignore small problems:
Check for low spots twice per year
Look for joint sand loss
Watch for edge spreading
Fix small issues before they become big ones
Catching problems early saves thousands.
What Local Pavers LLC Does:
Every repair includes:
Drainage assessment and fixes
Proper edge restraints if missing
Premium polymeric joint sand
Compaction testing before and after
2-year warranty on repaired area
We don't just patch the symptom. We fix the cause.
Why Paver Sinking Is Common in Orlando (And What to Do About It)
Orlando has unique challenges for pavers:
Challenge #1: Sandy Soil
Orlando sits on deep sand (sometimes 50+ feet)
Sand provides almost no structural support
Needs thicker, better-compacted base than other regions
Minimum 6-7 inches base (northern states can get away with 4-5 inches)
Solution: Never accept contractor saying "4-5 inches is enough" - it's not in Orlando
Challenge #2: Heavy Seasonal Rain
50+ inches annual rainfall
Afternoon thunderstorms dump 2-3 inches in 30 minutes
Water tests base installation constantly
Poor drainage shows up fast
Solution: Drainage planning is NOT optional in Orlando installations
Challenge #3: High Water Table
Some Orlando areas have water table issues:
Lake Nona near lakes
Dr. Phillips near Butler Chain
Areas near wetlands
Water saturates base from below
Solution: May need deeper excavation to reach stable soil, or specialized base materials
Challenge #4: Many Unlicensed Contractors
Orlando has lots of:
Cheap contractors who cut corners
Unlicensed "handymen" installing pavers
Contractors from other states not familiar with Florida soil
Result: Higher percentage of failed installations than other cities
Solution: Always verify Florida contractor license at MyFloridaLicense.com
Orange County Building Code:
Requires minimum 6-inch compacted base for paver installations. If your base is thinner, it wasn't done to code.
When Should You Call a Paver Repair Professional?
Call immediately if:
🚨 Safety hazard exists
Trip hazard from uneven pavers
Pavers near pool deck are loose/unstable
Liability issue if someone falls
🚨 Problem is spreading
Started with one spot, now three more
Sinking getting worse each month
Edges starting to collapse too
🚨 You tried DIY and it failed
You repaired it but sinking came back
Can't figure out the cause
Don't have right equipment
🚨 Area is large (over 50 sq ft affected)
🚨 Pavers are in visible area
Front driveway (curb appeal matters)
Pool deck (safety + appearance)
Patio (entertainment area)
Free Inspections Available:
Most Orlando paver companies offer free diagnosis:
We come out and assess
Tell you what caused it
Give you repair vs replace recommendation
Provide written estimate
No obligation. Get professional opinion before deciding.
📞 Local Pavers LLC: (689) 221-5641
Stop Pavers from Sinking - Fix the Root Cause
Pavers sink because of base failure, not because pavers are bad. The causes:
✓ Base too thin (3-4" instead of 6-7")
✓ Poor compaction (not compacted properly)
✓ Wrong materials (sand or round gravel)
✓ No geotextile fabric (soil contamination)
✓ Water erosion (poor drainage)
Small areas (under 50 sq ft): Repair for $500-$1,500Large areas (over 100 sq ft): Usually better to replace
Don't ignore sinking pavers. They only get worse and more expensive.
Get Free Diagnosis from Local Pavers LLC:
We'll inspect your pavers, diagnose the exact cause, and give you honest recommendation: repair or replace.
✓ Free inspection✓ No pressure sales✓ Upfront pricing✓ Licensed FL contractor✓ 5-year warranty on repairs
📞 Call (689) 221-5641 for free paver inspection
Service Areas: Orlando, Winter Park, Windermere, Celebration, Lake Nona, Dr. Phillips, Sanford, Lake Mary, Clermont, Winter Garden, Heathrow
More Paver Repair & Installation Guides:
→ 5 Signs Your Contractor Cut Corners on Base Prep Learn what causes base failures
→ 10 Questions to Ask Paver Contractors Prevent problems before installation
→ Pool Deck Pavers vs Concrete: Cost Calculator See if repair or replacement makes financial sense
→ Why Do So Many Orlando Homes Have Pavers? Understand Orlando's unique paver needs
About Local Pavers LLC
We've repaired 100+ failed paver installations across Orlando. Most failures stem from contractors cutting corners on base preparation to save money.
When we repair sinking pavers, we fix the underlying cause - not just the symptom. Our repairs come with 2-5 year warranties because we do it right.
Free paver inspections: (689) 221-5641
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