I was cleaning up the patio in preparation for the Memorial Day weekend.

It just needed a couple tiny weeds removed from the cracks and a layer of sand swept into the joints in a few places. Spraying it down with the hose completed the task.

I thought I would pass on a few tips for repairing any damage to your patio.

This tip will work for you whether you’re replacing a broken block or just raising an area that may have sunk. It is very easy to remove a broken patio stone. You don’t have to worry about breaking it. If the block is undamaged I try to put screwdrivers on opposing sides and lift the block out. When the base has been repaired you are ready to reinstall, or install a new, block.

I like to use a bar clamp when reinstalling that block. When the clamp is reversed it acts as a spreader. By placing the spreader in the opening, you can attempt to give yourself a tiny bit more room by opening up the space slightly. This helps a lot when installing a block somewhere other than an edge. A small block will just drop in place.

If you are using larger blocks it takes more effort to place one without damaging the base or your fingers. By using the bar clamp as a clamp you can prevent those problems. Clamp onto the block as high as you can while keeping a grip on it. Place the block into its place and release the clamp. It should drop perfectly into place.

Once you’re sure the repair is satisfactory sweep sand into the cracks and wash it in.

I’ll see you in the backyard!