Excavation and Base Preparation
At 0:00 in
a big ol patio
What happens here
Begin by excavating the designated area to the required depth, typically 8-12 inches, which accounts for the base aggregate, bedding sand, and paver thickness. Use heavy machinery like a Bobcat T770 for efficient removal of existing soil and debris. A dump truck will be useful for hauling away excavated material and delivering new aggregate. Ensure a proper drainage slope (typically 1-2% away from structures) is established. Once excavated, spread a layer of crushed stone or gravel, typically 6-10 inches thick, and compact it thoroughly using a plate compactor. Compact the aggregate in lifts (2-4 inch layers) for maximum density and stability. Use shovels and rakes for fine grading and spreading.
Goal: Create a stable, well-drained foundation for the pavers
Tools and materials
- Bobcat T770 Bobcat — Heavy excavation, removal of existing soil, and spreading new aggregate material
- Dump Truck — Hauling away excavated material and delivering new crushed stone/aggregate
- Level — Checking the slope and flatness of the excavated area and base layer
- Measuring Tape — Measuring the excavation depth and overall dimensions of the project area
- Plate Compactor — Compacting the aggregate base layer to create a dense and stable foundation
- Rake — Spreading and leveling the aggregate base material
- Shovel — Fine grading, manual excavation, and moving smaller amounts of material
- Crushed Stone / Aggregate — Creating the stable and drainage-friendly base layer for the pavers