Our patio has cracked and is sinking toward the house foundation (4 to 6 inches). The house and patio are about 20 years old. Can we backfill over the existing concrete to provide a slope away from the house? I was hoping to save work and dollars only if this is a smart option. We would probably want to use brick or pavers this time. Thanks for your suggestions! Cheryl S.

Under the circumstances I don't think leaving the old cement down is a good option. Should be taken up if you want a good looking patio arrangement with brick or pavers.

If you leave the old cement there and its cracking then you are not going to have a level brick patio even if you try to mend the existing cement.

Taking up old concete is very expensive to do - cncrete work whether putting in new concrete or removing old concrete is very expensive. If you properly channel the water away from the house the pavers idea would work. You will have to pay good attention to the slope and grade of the patio to get the desired effect.

I agree, take up th eold concrete. That 4-6" slope will just cause water issues forever and needs to be corrected. Remember too the it isn't just the concrete that is sloped but the land under it. It all need to be leveled and pitched away from the house, then put down you pavers on 4" of limestone screenings.