[Island Mike]

Base Material Question:

I have read the "How to Install Brick Pavers" article, which was written by Stonehenge. I am still not completely sure what is being used for the 6-7" of base material before the pavers are laid? This is the sand less method.

I did find a thread where there was a picture of three different types of material. I believe the material being used was the middle one (limestone screenings), is this correct? Does this material have any other names or descriptions? I am looking to buy this exact material.

Some installers that use sand precompact the sand and just strike off the last 1/4" or so, any thoughts on this method?

I really like the thought of working with a firm base, so that I know exactly what I am going to end up with after the pavers are laid.

Slope question:

I am going to have a walkway that runs along the side of my house from the front to the back yard. The walkway will have a combination of landings and steps since the back yard is at a higher elevation. In this case do you slope everything away from the house or slope it all forward? Do individual steps need a slope?

Thanks!

[Stonehenge]

Mike - What part of the country or world are you calling home? It's possible that you can't get the material you saw pictured, but there is most likely an equivalent in your area.

As for your slope question - water should shed from the steps, but this is usually not so critical. As for the walkways, you'll want pitch away from the house.

[Island Mike]

Thanks for the reply Stonehenge.

I am currently living in Vancouver, British Columbia (Originally from Vancouver Island, thus my handle).

We have several good Landscape Centre’s, which seen to have a good variety of material. I am just having a little trouble fully identifying a similar product.

For example the follow link is for product that is sold at a local landscape centre in my area:

Landscape Centre Inc - Bulk Materials: River Rock, Lava Rock, Bark Mulch, Premium Top Soil, Garden Mix...

Do you see a material you would recommend? Do you use the same material for the whole base?

Island Mike

[Stonehenge]

For a really strong base you could use the 3/4" minus for the first lift or two of stone, the 3/8" minus for the top.

[Island Mike]

Thanks again Stonehenge!

I am just wrapping up my DIY research and hope to begin my project this spring. I will be sure to let you know how everything turns out.

Island Mike