Prepare the Foundation and Base
At 0:03 in
like it was always supposed to be
What happens here
To prepare for the construction of the unified steps, landings, and raised planter as depicted in the video, begin by excavating the designated area. Dig down to the required depth, typically 6-12 inches depending on local frost lines and load-bearing requirements, ensuring proper drainage slope away from the house. Lay a geotextile fabric to prevent weed growth and improve soil stability. Then, install a compacted base of crushed gravel, followed by a layer of bedding sand. Use a plate compactor to achieve maximum density and a string line and level to ensure a perfectly flat and level surface across the entire footprint of the new structure.
Goal: Establish a stable, level, and well-drained foundation for the hardscaping elements.
Tools and materials
- Laser Level — Ensuring the base layers are perfectly level and sloped correctly
- Pickaxe — Breaking up compacted soil or small roots during excavation
- Plate Compactor — Compacting the gravel and sand base layers
- Safety Glasses — Protecting eyes during excavation and compaction
- Shovel — Excavating the soil and spreading base materials
- Wheelbarrow — Transporting excavated soil and hardscaping materials
- Work Gloves — Protecting hands during manual labor
- Bedding Sand — Providing a fine, level layer for setting pavers and blocks
- Crushed Gravel — Creating the primary load-bearing and drainage base
- Geotextile Fabric — Separating soil from base layers, preventing weed growth