[Marbury]

I am currently excavating soil to add a service walk in my back yard. The walk will be approximately 4x20, and will be constructed of Unilock Uni-Decor pavers. I have read conflicting info about the installation, and I would just like to clear up the questions I have. (Oh, and although I am a homeowner and not a pro, I don't EVER take shortcuts. I do things right the first time so I don't have to hire someone to fix my mistake later. Just thought I would get that out of the way.)

1. How deep should I make my gravel layer? Is a 6-inch layer of gravel adequate? I live outside Chicago, Zone 5.

2. The Unilock web site says to use a 1-inch layer of sand under the pavers. I have seen other sources which advise using 2 inches. I normally go with the manufacturer's recommendation. Is 1-inch really adequate?

3. Should I set my walk so that the finished height is: a) slightly above grade; b) slightly below grade; or 3) at grade?

Many thanks for the help!

Tim

[Bill Schwab]

use 6" of base gravel, 1" or less of sand. I like using 1/2" or less of sand. truth be said, you could easily get by with 4" of base on a walk way.

Litterature by Home Depot used to read 2" of sand, and it was plainly wrong. It is those jobs that look like washboards after a year or two.