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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