Patio Slabs Sinking
Individual patio slabs or sections of paving that have dropped, creating an uneven and sometimes dangerous surface.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Sub-base not properly compacted
- 2Water washing away the bedding sand or mortar
- 3Tree roots displacing the ground beneath
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A paving specialist will lift the sunken slabs, rebuild the sub-base, add fresh bedding material, and re-lay the slabs to a level finish.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £333 – £1,067 | Materials: £200 – £933
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
How to Prevent This
Ensure a properly compacted sub-base is laid during installation. Direct drainage away from paved areas. Avoid planting trees close to patios.
Related Problems
Patio slabs or sections of paving that have dropped, creating uneven surfaces and trip hazards.
Cracks appearing in paving slabs, concrete paving, or natural stone, sometimes splitting entire slabs.
Water pooling on the patio surface or not draining away after rain, creating puddles and algae growth.
Other Paving Specialist Problems
Cracks appearing in paving slabs, concrete paving, or natural stone, sometimes splitting entire slabs.
Weeds pushing up through the joints between patio slabs or paving stones.
Water pooling on the patio surface or not draining away after rain, creating puddles and algae growth.
Discoloured or stained patio slabs from algae, moss, oil, rust, or other marks that look unsightly.