ᐅ Uneven and loose paving – what can help?

Hello everyone,
we recently had our driveway paved with natural stones. Unfortunately, I am not satisfied with the result. Many stones are still loose, and the surface is extremely uneven. We had a pathway paved with the same stones about 2 years ago, and that one turned out perfect.

I have already spoken with the builders, and we will find some kind of agreement. However, they are not professional landscapers but rather a general construction team that handles various tasks. (After 4 companies didn’t even submit a quote, we were just glad they finally agreed to do it.)

The main question is: How can I make the already laid stones as level and firm as possible? We are now trying to get a heavy (700 kg (1,540 lbs)) vibrating plate, as the previous one was too weak. Will that be enough to level everything properly?

You might need to explain more precisely how the ground was prepared. If the base layer wasn’t done correctly, it won’t work out.

Best regards,
Sabine

Ok,
the base layer was already created 3 years ago as a construction access road with 40cm (16 inches) of crushed stone, which was compacted. It was and still is rock solid. Sand was then spread on top, and the stones were laid on it. Afterward, the gaps were filled with sand.

Who in their right mind installs paving stones on sand?? They are supposed to be laid on gravel. No wonder everything ends up unstable.

If the construction is as described, unfortunately, it is not correct. Also, the excavation depth of only 40 cm (15.7 inches) is relatively shallow. The frost depth will not be reached this way.

So, paving should be laid on crushed stone. Sand could be washed away over time. An excavation depth of 40cm (16 inches) is completely sufficient for a driveway.