Two Basic Approaches to Fixing Poly Sand Issues on a Patio
- Spot-check and fill in the joints between your pavers.
- If you notice some areas where the sand has become displaced you can sweep in new poly sand.
- We recommend poly sand be installed to within 1/8” of the patio surface.
- Once the poly sand has been swept in, use a garden hose to lightly water down the patio and therefore activating the polymers in the poly sand
- Be sure to clear any poly sand located on the side of your house/trees/etc. as the material can stick/stain
- This “spot check” should be performed yearly.
- If needed, you can fully redo the poly sand for your entire patio.
- You would start cleaning the surface of the patio (sweeping off all debris/etc.). You would then purposefully blast out the top ¼-3/4” of poly sand between the paver joints using a power washer with a narrow high-pressure nozzle.
- Be sure to clear any poly sand located on the side of your house/trees/etc. as the material can stick/stain
- After this has been performed, you must wait for the patio to dry. Once dry, you can proceed with sweeping in new poly sand.
- After you have finished sweeping, use a hose or other water option (as opposed to a power washer) to wet down the poly sand therefore “activating” the mixture and sealing it in place.
- We would recommend this be performed every 5-7 years or so as needed.
When to Repair vs. Replace a Paver or Flagstone Patio
If you are noticing issues with your patio, such as settling or unevenness, you might be wondering if your patio can be repaired or if replacement makes the most sense.
The first step to take is to identify the root cause of the issue. Start with looking at the patio itself to determine if it was properly built in the first place? Is the edging around the patio perimeter holding everything in place? Have individual pieces been chipped? Here is an easy checklist to follow for checking on the quality of your patio’s original construction.
- Remove damaged pavers by lifting them out of place and settling aside in the pattern they were laid.
- Dig a 6-8” hole to examine base construction
- A properly installed patio will have a 1” layer of leveling sand or crushed rock followed by a 4-6” layer of class 5 (or equivalent base material) with an underlayment fabric below
If you are not seeing this outlined method of construction under your patio, your patio was not properly built and it may not be worth fixing. Instead, replacement would be the more thorough long-term solution. If you’re not sure what to do, we recommend having a professional like KG Landscape out to advise whether the replacement is required or if repairs might make sense.
Reasons to Replace a Stone Patio:
- Improper construction
- Damaged beyond repair
- If you do not like the size or shape of the patio or the style of the pavers
- If the cost to repair is similar to the cost to replace
Reasons to Repair a Paver Patio:
- It’s holding up well, with only a limited amount of issues
- If the repairs will help keep the patio nice for the long run
- You still like the current look, shape and size of the patio
- If your goal is to keep costs low, while at the same doing small fixes prior to selling your home
Drainage Issues Can Damage Patios
If the cause of the issue is outside of the patio footprint such as a
drainage problem, that will have to be solved before you move forward with fixing the patio. Signs of improper drainage can be, but are not limited to, water has been pooling in your patio area, washed out poly sand, a downspout emptying right onto a patio, if you are noticing erosion or soil washout around the edges of your patio, stains from mineral deposits on the surface, and/or mold and mildew growth.
Improper drainage can also cause the soil underneath your patio to shift during the freeze thaw cycle and therefore cause the pavers or stones to shift and become unlevel. If you would like to have one of our experts out to access your property,
feel free to reach out.
To learn more about drainage,
visit our drainage solutions page.
In Conclusion
Proper patio maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of
outdoor living spaces. Regular cleaning, sealing, and addressing drainage issues contribute to preserving the patio surface, preventing issues such as cracks, stains, and uneven settling. By incorporating routine inspections and timely repairs, homeowners can create a welcoming and well-maintained patio that enhances their outdoor experience.
Investing time and effort in maintaining the patio not only safeguards against wear and tear but also enhances the overall value of the property. Ultimately, a well-maintained patio provides a durable and enjoyable space for relaxation and entertainment, extending the life and beauty of this integral part of your home.
