Building a deck and paver patio (Unilock xl slabs on HPB and gator base). Decided to use the backfill from the excavation to ‘build up’ a 16’x20’ patio base extension beyond the deck. I didn’t anticipate such a high balcony relative to grade (because I trusted my eyes instead of measuring), but with the string set at 1/4” slope per foot I ended up with a 38 degree slope at the edges. But as I’m steeling myself to add more retaining walls I’m struck with a larger problem that should have been obvious: *I’ve used backfill as a base*. So now I’m into the whole disturbed soil sin. I spent a lot of time and effort tamping it all down in small loving lifts but the more I read the more I get that sinking feeling. I know I screwed up. How do I fix it? Is there anything I can do to salvage this little hilltop base? Is there any world in which I can forge ahead? Or do I absolutely need to tear it all out, install retaining walls, pack up a proper base and start again? Ugh what a way to close out Labour Day weekend.
by Ill_Location4524
7 Comments
I guess I don’t understand your issue here?
Anyone building a new pad higher in elevation would have to use imported soil. Whether that be from other areas of your house, or a dirt pit.
If you’ve packed it, every 8”-12”, then I wouldn’t worry. Your deck is going to be supported mostly by your columns, which should be extended pretty deep into the ground.
Maybe I’m way off, but it just sounds like you’re worried about settlement?? If so, you can even wait 30 days to allow the ground to naturally settle if you wish, but of course you deal with washout doing this.
Edit: Also, for the washout scenario long term, you could just plant sod along the edges of that pad and it will take care of that.
you’re over thinking it, especially if you tamped as you went
edit well actually if your backfill includes like grass and root mat and sticks debris yada yada yea you def did fuck up
but if it’s clean dirt nah
Looks like more of a sand soil rather than clay ( well drained vs expansive)I’d say use some bedding sand, lay the gator base and send it.
If you did tamp it between lifts you should be in good shape, but I understand the trepidation. Was it hand tamping or mechanical compaction with a plate compactor? Did you wet it before compacting?
Dude, add a retainer wall or more dirt to create a slope out from the level area. Cheers
So you have top soil(plant matter, roots, plant nutrients) and fill dirt or clean fill, excavated earth. You use topsoil to raise your patio, I see your dilemma.
Tamping is not sifficient. You need a compactor, and thoughly water it as well. Id finish with 5/8 minus crush gravel for the top 4 inches min
1” per 10ft is normal. Not 1/4”