Virtually every homeowner is familiar with some of the more common patio problems. Do-it-yourself home maintenance, particularly when it comes to patios, is something that many people like to avoid at all costs. If this is the case, it's probably a good idea to let a patio contractor worry about these issues. By arming yourself with a few tools and some basic knowledge, however, tackling those common patio problems on your own should be quite manageable.
Common Patio Problem #1: Sinking Bricks or Stones
Many brick or stone patios are installed on top of a fine layer of sand or gravel. As the ground freezes and thaws throughout the year, small portions of patios may sink slightly. To fix this patio problem, remove the stones or bricks that are not level with the rest of the patio. Add sufficient sand or gravel and use a tamper to compact the material. Use a line level to ensure the sand or gravel is even. Next, measure the height of the stone or brick with a ruler. Then, measure the distance between the layer of sand and the top of the nearest stone to ensure the stones will be even. Finally, place the stone or brick back into its original position.
Note: If large areas of the patio have begun to sink, the culprit is most likely poor drainage. Fixing this common patio problem is much more complicated, and you may want to consult a professional.
Common Patio Problem #2: Stains, Mildew, and Moss
No matter what type of material your patio is constructed of, it will likely become stained and dirty over time. Moss and mildew are common patio problems associated with numerous patio materials, including brick. Periodic power washing is an effective way to address these common patio problems.
Note: When cleaning brick, ensure the pressure does not exceed 3,000 psi. This may damage the material.
Common Patio Problem #3: Missing Mortar
While brick is a very durable material, a common patio problem is that the mortar used to adjoin bricks can disintegrate over time. Even when an expert takes care of your patio design and installation, missing mortar is still a common patio problem. To fix this patio problem, you'll first want to clean the bricks thoroughly. Pressure washing is a good idea. Then, purchase sand that is as close to the existing sand in your patio as possible. Consider color and particle size. Using a chisel to remove a small piece of mortar and bringing that with you to the hardware store may be a good idea. Once you've purchased the sand, mix equal parts of sand and cement. Apply a little water to the areas you are repairing and apply the mixture with the grout bag. The compound should be higher than the brick by about a quarter of an inch. Once the mortar loses its luster, level it with the brick by using a trowel. Keep the mortar damp for several days while it sets.
Fixes for Severe Patio Problems
Many common patio problems can be fixed in a few hours. However, some patio problems are quite severe. Large numbers of cracked bricks or stones or huge sinking areas are not patio problems that the average homeowner would feel comfortable tackling. In this case, professional help is a must. You may even want to completely replace your patio. Use patio contractors as references for photo and design ideas for those considering patio repairs or replacements, and for those designing their very first patio.
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