Compacting the Base Material
From Landscape Steps · Step 4 of 8 · Video by Tussey Landscaping
Showing 2:27–2:48 of the source video.
What happens in this clip
After preparing the base and before laying the final steps or patio, use a plate compactor (often called a 'jumping jack') to thoroughly compact the crushed stone or excavated soil. This is especially important for areas that have been recently excavated, such as for a new house addition, to prevent future settling of the steps and patio. Run the compactor over the entire area multiple times to achieve maximum compaction.
Goal: Ensure a highly compacted and stable base for the new steps and patio
What's used
Tools
- Crushed Stone
- Plate Compactor Wacker Neuson
- Vibratory plate compactor
About the full video
This project details the process of installing natural stone steps and a complementary paver patio for a new home addition. It covers site preparation, base compaction, careful placement and leveling of large natural stone slabs, custom stone shaping, and the laying and edging of interlocking pavers, culminating in a finished landscape feature.
Step 4 of 8: Compact Base Material
Add a 2-3 inch layer of gravel or crushed stone at the bottom of the excavated step area, behind the retaining timbers. Compact this layer thoroughly using a hand tamper or plate compactor to create a stable base.
Other videos for this step
Landscape Steps
This project involves constructing timber and gravel steps on a slope to improve accessibility and aesthetics. The process includes planning the layout, excavating the area, building retaining walls for each step using timber, and filling the steps with compacted gravel for a durable and functional surface.
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