[diginahole]

I have started using screed pipes for the bedding sand in my paver installations. I must say I wish I had done this sooner. It's a breeze. The job I am working on is nearly 3000 sq ft. The sand went down at 600 sq ft per hour just me and the skid steer. Tomorrow I get to train a new guy how to do it. I suspect he will be trained and competent in about 15 minutes. I guess I feel pretty foolish for sticking to the string method for so long.

How long of a straight edge do you guys use when screeding, assuming the job allows a long one? I have been using a 8' and it seems like I could probably handle about a 10' by myself.

[Stonehenge]

You can do more than 8', so long as you don't use lumber...2x4's here start to bow when pulled if they are over 8', goofing up the base prep. But you can go larger with an aluminum screed rail, or square tube - I believe I've seen as long as 12'.

BTW, congrats on switching to pipes.

[Rex Mann]

Good move going to the pipes. Now, one tip for you. Buy a 6 inch diameter plastic pipe 10 feet long and store your pipes in there. You will find they will last longer. Tweaked pipes are difficult to work with. Also, do not be affraid to cut the down to any size you need.

Peace,

Rex