Is a Base Really Necessary?

When installing any hardscape project whether it may be a retaining wall, patio or walkway, you expect the time and effort spent to result in many years of enjoyment.

So many times do I see do-it-yourselfers and some contractors for that matter skimp on the foundation of any great hardscape project. Just remember as you begin to build the lifestyle of your dreams in your backyard, the beauty is only going to last as long as the foundation it sits on.

Especially in Texas, we have a lot of clay soils. While these clay like soils are tough to dig and represent a hard, stable ground, they are all but not. Not to get too scientific, clay like soils act in a "heaving" and "contracting" matter. This means that as the soils absorb water they grow and swell. Being consisted mainly of clay, these soils tend to hold the water for long lengths of time, which in turn makes the soils moveable and very unstable.

In every installation whether it be a patio or retaining wall, a compacted base is neccessary. The material you use for a base may vary from project to project. For instance if you are looking to do a large flagstone patio where you plan to entertain and dine, you may want to pour a "scratch" cement base using Portland cement. However, if you are looking to do a concrete paver instead, then the base of choice would result in using a compacted aggregate and a bedding layer of sand.

While the material used for a base will result in the project and product being used, it is safe to say that any and all hardscape projects need to first be planned accordingly as well as taking all of the neccessary steps to ensure that the project will stand the test of time and offer many years of enjoyment. With the proper base preparation to any project, you will be loving your landscape worry free year after year.

For additional assistance in figuring the proper base material for your project or if you are seeking help to determine estimating or choosing product, please give us a call at 800-648-4551 or visit our website http://www.whiz-q.com/. We will be glad to help you Build the Lifestyle of Your Dreams.

-Derek Whisenand