What’s the Most Important Step in Landscape Construction?

If you're investing in a new patio, walkway, or retaining wall, you want to make sure it's built to last. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: What’s the most important step in landscape construction? The answer? A properly prepared base.

Why Is the Base So Important?

The base is the foundation of any hardscaping project. If it’s not properly installed, you’ll start to see problems like:

❌ Pavers shifting or sinking over time

❌ Uneven surfaces that create tripping hazards

❌ Water pooling in the wrong areas

❌ Cracks in retaining walls or stonework

A strong, well-compacted base ensures your hardscape features remain level, stable, and durable for years to come.

How We Build a Proper Base

At Leveled Ground, we follow a proven process to create a long-lasting foundation:

1️⃣ Excavation: We dig deep enough to remove soft soil and make space for a solid base.

2️⃣ Compacted Aggregate: We use high-quality gravel and compact it in layers for maximum strength.

3️⃣ Proper Drainage: We ensure water flows away from structures to prevent erosion and shifting.

4️⃣ Edge Restraints: We secure pavers with edge restraints to keep everything in place.

5️⃣ Final Compaction & Sanding: For interlock surfaces, we use polymeric sand to lock everything together.

Signs of a Poorly Built Base

If your current hardscape has issues, it may be due to a weak base. Watch for these warning signs:

🔹 Sinking or uneven pavers – A sign of poor compaction.

🔹 Water pooling on the surface – Indicates improper drainage.

🔹 Shifting stones or loose edges – Edge restraints may be missing or failing.

Build It Right the First Time

Cutting corners on the base will lead to costly repairs later. That’s why Leveled Ground focuses on precision and quality from the start—so your investment lasts.

📞 Contact us today for a free quote on your hardscaping project!