Fill methods to remedy a sinkhole must be compatible with surrounding materials, layers of drainage fabric must be installed in the right places to prevent the added materials from sifting downward or drifting/washing away, and compaction must be gauged using testing equipment. It is not adequate to just tamp material in place. Companies that perform these tasks are excavating, drainage and soil-remediation specialists who can follow instructions from a professional architect’s or engineer’s plan. I just designed such a project, and it will need to be redone since the paving company didn’t follow instructions. Do it once, do it right. Good luck!

©2013 Monte Leeper. Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.