why your hardscape project needs a rock-solid gravel base

if you're planning a patio, walkway, set of steps, or a cozy seating area anywhere in the western suburbs of chicago—naperville, wheaton, plainfield, batavia, geneva, lisle, or downers grove—there’s one critical part of the project that most folks don’t think about: the gravel base. not exactly glamorous, i know. but this layer of crushed stone (specifically ca-6 gravel) is what makes or breaks your entire hardscaping investment.

we’re in wheaton today fixing a set of steps that’s settled and pulled away from the house over time. the root of the problem? poor installation techniques and improper base materials. it’s a frustrating and costly repair that could have been completely avoided with the right prep work.

around here, we have a lot of clay-heavy soils that hold moisture and expand or contract with the seasons. skipping the step of assessing and preparing the soil before construction just invites future problems. once we’ve evaluated the site, we install the ca-6 gravel base in “lifts”—just a couple of inches at a time, then compact it with a plate compactor before adding more. we repeat that process until we reach the proper base depth. compacting each layer ensures there’s no settling or shifting down the road.

a strong base is what keeps your beautiful outdoor space solid and safe for years to come. it supports the structure and prevents the headaches of repairs, tripping hazards, or drainage issues. while it might not be the part you see or get excited about, it’s the part that protects your investment—especially in places where seasonal shifts can wreak havoc on improperly installed hardscapes.

so whether you're dreaming up a backyard patio in batavia, a walkway in downers grove, or a fire pit area in naperville, do yourself a favor: start from the ground up and do it right. your future self (and your budget) will thank you.