Excavation and Grading
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💀 #skeleton #paverpatio #hardscape
What happens here
With the hexagonal outline clearly marked, proceed to excavate the entire area to a uniform depth. This depth must accommodate the base layers: typically 4 to 6 inches for the gravel base, 1 inch for the sand setting bed, and the thickness of your chosen pavers (usually 2 to 3 inches). Additionally, factor in a slight grade of approximately 1/8 inch per foot, sloping away from the house, to ensure proper water drainage. Use a shovel for digging and a hand tamper or plate compactor to thoroughly compact the bottom of the excavated area, ensuring a firm and stable sub-base.
Goal: Create a stable and properly sloped sub-base for the paver pad.
Tools and materials
- Hand Tamper — Compacting the soil subgrade
- Level — Checking the grade and levelness of the excavated area
- Pickaxe — Breaking up compacted soil or small rocks during excavation
- Rake — Spreading and leveling excavated soil
- Shovel — Excavating the soil