A sinking or tilting patio almost always traces back to what is under it. Here are the causes and how a good build prevents them.

A weak or thin base

If the gravel base is too thin or poorly compacted, it settles under weight and the surface follows. The fix is a proper depth of crushed stone compacted in layers.

Water under the surface

Water washes soil out from under a patio, creating voids that collapse. It can also freeze and swell the ground in winter. Good grading and drains keep water moving away.

Tree roots and soft soil

Roots lift pavers and slabs, and soft or filled ground settles. We remove poor material, replace it with firm base and choose patio edges and layouts that respect large trees.

What to do if it has already happened

Sunken pavers can often be lifted, the base corrected and the pavers reset. Slabs that have settled badly usually need replacement. A site visit shows which route makes sense.