The Most Common Paving Stone Problems and How to Fix Them

Paving stones are a durable and aesthetically pleasing choice for driveways, patios, and walkways. However, over time, even the best-installed paving stones can develop issues due to weather, usage, and improper installation. Knowing how to identify and fix these problems will help keep your outdoor space looking its best for years to come. Here are some of the most common paving stone problems in Winnipeg and how to address them.

1. Uneven or Sunken Stones

Cause:

  • Poor base preparation

  • Soil erosion due to heavy rain or melting snow

  • Frequent freeze-thaw cycles

  • Heavy vehicle traffic

Solution:

  • Lift the affected stones and inspect the base.

  • Remove any loose or eroded material and add fresh base material.

  • Compact the base thoroughly to prevent further sinking.

  • Reinstall the paving stones and ensure they are level.

2. Cracked Paving Stones

Cause:

  • Extreme temperature changes

  • Heavy loads or impact

  • Low-quality stones

Solution:

  • Replace the cracked stone with a matching replacement if available.

  • Ensure the new stone is set on a properly compacted base.

  • Consider upgrading to higher-quality paving stones if cracking is a recurring issue.

3. Weed Growth Between Stones

Cause:

  • Gaps between stones not properly filled

  • Erosion of jointing material over time

  • Seeds settling in the joints

Solution:

  • Remove existing weeds and debris from the joints.

  • Apply polymeric sand to fill the gaps and prevent weed growth.

  • Regularly sweep and clean the surface to minimize new weed growth.

4. Water Pooling on the Surface

Cause:

  • Poor drainage planning

  • Uneven installation

  • Settling of the base layer

Solution:

  • Identify low spots where water is pooling.

  • Lift the affected stones and adjust the base to create proper water runoff.

  • Ensure the slope of the surface directs water away from structures.

5. Loose or Wobbly Stones

Cause:

  • Insufficient compaction during installation

  • Base material settling over time

  • Jointing material washing away

Solution:

  • Remove the loose stones and reapply base material if needed.

  • Compact the base properly before reinstalling the stones.

  • Refill the joints with polymeric sand and compact the surface.

6. Discolouration and Staining

Cause:

  • Oil, grease, or rust stains

  • Organic material like leaves or moss

  • Exposure to de-icing salts

Solution:

  • Use a pressure washer with a suitable cleaning solution for your type of paving stone.

  • For stubborn stains, use a specialized paving stone cleaner.

  • Apply a sealant to protect against future staining.

7. Edge Stones Shifting or Falling Out

Cause:

  • Poor edge restraint installation

  • Freeze-thaw cycles causing movement

  • High traffic along the edges

Solution:

  • Reinstall edge restraints and ensure they are properly secured.

  • Use concrete edging or metal restraints to keep the stones in place.

  • Compact the surrounding base to reinforce stability.

Preventing Future Issues

To extend the lifespan of your paving stones and minimize repairs, follow these tips:

  • Ensure Proper Installation: A well-prepared base and high-quality materials reduce the risk of issues.

  • Perform Regular Maintenance: Sweep, clean, and inspect your paving stones periodically.

  • Address Problems Early: Fixing small issues before they worsen can save time and money.

Get Professional Help from The Paving Stone Pros

If you’re experiencing issues with your paving stones, The Paving Stone Pros are here to help. Whether it’s leveling uneven stones, preventing weed growth, or repairing shifting edges, our team provides expert solutions to keep your outdoor space in top shape. Contact us today for a consultation and let us handle your paving stone repair needs.

Get in Touch

Neffi Bergen