Prepare the Sub-Base
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The river patio 🏞️ #hardscaping
What happens here
The video begins by showing an excavated area with a well-compacted gravel base, which is a critical foundation for any paver installation. This initial step involves excavating the area to the proper depth, ensuring a slight slope for drainage (typically 1-2% away from structures). Layers of aggregate base material, such as crushed stone or gravel, are then spread and thoroughly compacted using a plate compactor. The base must be perfectly level and tightly compacted to prevent any future settling or shifting of the pavers. A small square paver is briefly shown, indicating the material to be used in the construction.
Goal: Create a stable and level foundation for the pavers.
Tools and materials
- Level — Checking the slope and flatness of the excavated area and compacted base
- Measuring Tape — Measuring excavation depths and overall dimensions
- Pickaxe — Breaking up hard soil or compacted ground during excavation
- Plate Compactor — Compacting the aggregate base material to create a dense, stable foundation
- Shovel — Excavating soil and spreading base material
- String Line — Establishing straight lines and consistent grades
- Wheelbarrow — Transporting excavated soil and base materials
- Gravel / Crushed Stone — Creating the compacted aggregate base layer