STEP 1 • EXCAVATION FOR THE GATOR BASE INSTALLATION

The total depth required will be determined by adding the thickness of the fabric compacted sand or stone, Gator Base 3/4″ and paver, slab, stone or porcelain tile. Excavate 6″ wider than the perimeter of the paved surface or 12″ if building a seating wall or fire pit. Use a shovel or excavator to complete the excavation. Before excavating, consult with local utilities to avoid damaging any buried pipes or wires.

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STEP 2 • LEVELING AND COMPACTING OF THE SOIL

After excavation, level the surface with a rake or shovel. Plan a 2% slope from any structure, especially a house. Compact the soil densely, use a vibrating plate or hand tamper in confined areas. The surface should be as smooth as possible; Using a pipe, check by rolling it over the compacted surface to check that there are no protrusions or hollows of more than 3/8″. Using string, spikes and a level, proceed with the leveling in order to ensure a 2% slope.

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STEP 3 • ADD GATOR FABRIC GF4.4 AND COMPACT THE SAND

Cover the excavated area and sides with a non-woven fabric. Spread an even layer of sand 3/4″ over the fabric. Use 2 pipes of 3/4″ spread 4 ft to 6 ft fabric. Spread the sand or stone between the pipes. Using a board, level the fill against the pipes. After removing the pipes, fill in the hollows. Using a hand tamper or vibrating plate, moisten the sand and compact the filling sand to a thickness of 1/2″. The surface should be smooth. This will represent the mirror of the finished product.

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STEP 4 • INSTALL THE GATOR BASE

Cover the entire excavated surface with the Gator Base, the excavation and the Gator Base should be 6″ wider on each sides of the final line of pavers or 12″ for a seating wall or fire pit. Lay the Gator Base units in a staggered pattern and ensure they lock together perfectly, and remain stable while installing the selected stone or paver. With the help of a utility knife, eliminate visible curves.

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STEP 5 • INSTALL PAVERS, BLOCKS AND GATOR EDGE

Place the pavers or blocks (seat wall, fire pit) directly on the Gator Base. Slide the pavers in place. Make sure the Gator Base protrudes 6″ on either side of the paving area or 12″ for your seating wall or fire pit (See Diagrams 5-6-7). Install the Gator Edge on the Gator Base, firmly against the pavers or blocks. Thread a Gator Base Screw every second hole to maximize the lateral support provided by the Gator Edge. For building a fire pit using Gator Base, refer to the 4 different options provided (Diagram 8 options 1-4) and follow the steps according to your situation.

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