Compacting Patio Base

Yota_85 · Jul 10, 2009

Would like others thoughts on this:
Compacting the base layer of my (soon to be) bluestone patio. It consists on 3" or so of "hardpack" over 6" of 3/4 (and smaller) stone. I am now compacting the "hardpack" to prep it for the sand layer.

First I wet it down with the garden hose, and filled my bucket on my Kubota B7610 with dirt and drove back & forth until the entire area was compacted. Then repeated the process (re-wetting each time) 2 more times.

Question I have is do you all think this is adequate?

I have been debating renting a (walk behind) power tamper to go over it again, but now wonder if it is even necessary. Seems pretty compacted to me now. The local H.D. wants $59 for 4 hr to rent it. Would I be wise to keep my $59 and save it for beer?

Thanks in advance.

ronjhall · Jul 11, 2009

I have put in several patio/walks using pavers. The ones I used a compactor with have stayed much more stable and level over the years.

johnnylight · Jul 12, 2009

would your way work --no one knows for sure--

now with the plate compactor you have a better chance.
the plate compactor vibrates which is key.

Spend the $59.00 now either pay a little now or a lot more later.
Think if You have to do all over again your have to remove all blue stone and start from scratch it a lot of time and sweat not to do it the right way..

Think of the money your be saving when you do it the right way the first time.
When all is done go buy your self a extra case of beer laughing while your walking over your new patio.

Charlesaf3 · Jul 13, 2009

I think you are probably fine.

But I'd still use the compactor. Cheap insurance

aggiehortguy91 · Jul 13, 2009

I would definately use the compactor for the base. In the long run, you will be saving alot of beer money and making more time to drink it. Be sure to post pictures of the project and ask questions if you have them. There seems to be alot of stone setting experience on this board.

schmism · Jul 14, 2009

just buck up and rent the right tool for the job so you know its done right and dont have any problems with a high $$ patio like that later.

plate compactor is simple to run and makes quick work of it.

remember to work in 2-3" lifts