Can I have my sunken interlock driveway pavers re-levelled instead of replacing them in Orleans?

In most cases, yes. Interlock paver re-levelling is one of the biggest advantages of a paver driveway, and it is a very common service in Orleans where many subdivisions were built on fill soil that continues to settle over time.

How Interlock Re-Levelling Works

The process involves lifting the affected pavers, adding or redistributing the bedding sand and granular base material underneath, compacting it properly, and reinstalling the same pavers. Because interlock pavers are individual units and not bonded together, they can be removed and replaced without damage. Once re-levelled, the joints are swept with fresh polymeric sand and the surface is compacted with a plate tamper.

Cost of Re-Levelling in Orleans

For a localised area (5 to 15 square metres), expect to pay $800 to $2,500 depending on the extent of the settlement and how much base material needs to be added. If the entire driveway needs re-levelling (common on driveways over 10 years old in Orleans subdivisions like Avalon, Chapel Hill, or Fallingbrook), the cost typically runs $3,500 to $7,000 for a standard two-car driveway. This is still significantly less than replacing the driveway entirely, which could cost $12,000 to $20,000 or more for new pavers, base, and installation.

Why Pavers Sink in Orleans

Orleans is located on the eastern edge of Ottawa where soil conditions vary considerably. Many newer subdivisions were built on fill material that compacts unevenly over time. Additionally, Ottawa's frost line extends 1.2 to 1.5 metres deep, and the repeated freeze-thaw cycles push moisture through the granular base, washing out fines and creating voids. Poor initial compaction during original construction is another common factor, particularly in developments where driveways were installed before the home's landscaping had fully settled.

When Re-Levelling Is Not Enough

If the base material has been severely compromised by water erosion or the pavers have sunk more than 75 to 100 millimetres in certain areas, simply adding bedding sand will not create a lasting repair. In these cases, the contractor may need to excavate the affected section, add and compact fresh granular A base material, and then reinstall the pavers. This is more involved than simple re-levelling but still far less expensive than a complete driveway replacement.

Drainage Must Be Addressed

Re-levelling without fixing the underlying drainage problem is a temporary solution at best. If water is pooling on or under the driveway and causing the settlement, the contractor should address grading, downspout discharge locations, or the addition of a French drain before putting the pavers back. Otherwise, the same settlement will recur within a few seasons.

WSIB and Contractor Qualifications

Interlock re-levelling involves manual labour with heavy equipment including plate compactors and possibly small excavators. Ensure any contractor you hire carries valid WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage. If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor lacks WSIB, you as the homeowner could be held liable.

Search for interlock specialists in Orleans through Ottawa Driveways to get an assessment of whether your sunken pavers can be re-levelled or need more extensive base repair.

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Looking for experienced contractors? The Ottawa Construction Network connects Ottawa homeowners with qualified professionals:

• Luxe Painting and Renovations
• RenoMotion Inc.
• Capital City Drywall
• Prime Property Works
• BFI Renovations