Compacted Base

A layer of crushed gravel mechanically compacted to create a stable foundation for pavers, concrete, or other hardscape.

Why It Matters for Homeowners

Why it matters: the base is what determines whether a hardscape lasts 30 years or settles in five. Most failures show up not in the surface material (concrete, pavers, brick) but in the gravel and sand below it. Industry standard is 4-6 inches of crushed rock spread in lifts, each compacted with a plate compactor before the next lift goes on. Shortcuts here are invisible the day of install and obvious within a few rainy seasons.

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