Heat / loose patio slabs

Delambre

Hi,

We had some extensive landscaping working done in our garden a couple of months ago, including a new patio being laid. The team worked hard and from what I can tell did things correctly - the sub base was laid and compacted, and the slabs definitely weren’t dot and dabbed, etc - and we were really happy with the work.

However, this week I’ve noticed one slab is very faintly ‘rocking’ when a corner is stepped on - it’s hard to see but I can definitely feel and hear movement. Another slab sounds distinctly hollow underneath if I tap it. 

We’re in the SE, so clay soil. I’m worried that the extreme heat has dried the soil to the point that parts of the foundation of the patio are falling away, and that this is going to create lots of loose slabs in a couple of years.

I’m going to call them back and ask for the issues to be fixed - but don’t want to get fobbed off. Is this sort of thing just an unfortunate fact of life with clay soil, or am I reasonable to be unhappy and want the slabs relaid?

Thanks in advance!

Gunner276

You are definitely reasonable to be unhappy. If laid correctly this should not have happened.

stuart45

Don't mention you think that shrinkable clay could be the problem when you call them back. 
Even if it is, it's up to them to find a way around the problem. They should understand any issues with the sub soil in the area they work in.

mandy47

My patio is south facing and on clay. It hasn't moved since it was laid 4 years ago.
 I would defiantly give them a call them back. 

FreeBear

Got a patio & path on sand - Just one slab has a slight hint of rock to it.. I can't be bothered to lift the offending slab as it weighs some 50Kg.. If I had paid someone to do the job, I would certainly have called them back.