How to stop DIY pavers from shifting and sinking over time
DIY paver walkways often shift and sink over time due to thin base layers, missing installation components, or improper aggregate choices like using angular stone without fines. This lack of proper structural support leads to uneven surfaces and drainage problems that compromise the long-term durability of the project.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1Using a proper deeper base layer
- 2Installing paver edging flush against unsupported edges
- 3Switching to concrete instead of pavers
- 4Ensuring proper leveling and pitch away from the house
- 5using alternative aggregates
- 6adding binding agents
In their words
Unedited, most upvoted first, each linked to the thread it came from.
“I keep seeing this type of diy project and it seems doable as long as you plan it out, buy the correct materials and get your underground lines marked. But I am curious if this would cause unanticipated problems like drainage, shifting over time, sinking etc?”source ↗
“How is angular stone with shifting ? Thinking 1/4 inch of cream buff limestone minus fines I want it to compact and not shift much. Is this possible”source ↗
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
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