Why the Base Layer Is the Most Important Part of Your Paver Patio

Especially in Michigan’s Freeze-Thaw Climate

At Alliance Grounds Services, we build patios that not only look beautiful — but are made to last. One of the most critical parts of any paver patio isn’t the bricks you see… it’s the base layer you don’t.

🧱 What Is the Base Layer?

The base layer is a compacted foundation of crushed stone or gravel installed beneath your pavers. It supports the weight of your patio, manages water drainage, and keeps everything level over time.

A weak or improperly installed base is one of the top reasons paver patios fail — especially in states like Michigan where winters can be brutal.

🌡️ Why It Matters More in Michigan

Michigan experiences frequent freeze-thaw cycles:

• Moisture under your patio freezes and expands in winter

• The ground shifts and lifts the patio surface

• When it thaws, the ground settles — but often unevenly

Without a strong base layer, this repeated movement can cause your patio to sink, heave, or break apart. That’s why what’s underneath matters even more here.

🛠️ Our Base Layer Process

We follow strict installation standards on every patio:

• Proper depth: We dig deep enough for 6–8 inches of crushed base

• Drainage stone: We use angular limestone for better compaction and drainage

• Step-by-step compaction: Each layer is compacted with professional equipment

• Edge restraints: We lock the perimeter to prevent shifting

• Pitching: We grade surfaces to drain water away from your home

💡 What Happens Without a Solid Base?

You may save a little upfront, but long-term you risk:

• Sinking or shifting pavers

• Uneven surfaces or tripping hazards

• Standing water and poor drainage

• Costly repairs — or full tear-outs

At Alliance Grounds, we never cut corners — we build for long-term durability.

👷‍♀️ Trust Alliance Grounds Services

We’re a family-owned, Michigan-based company, and we know how to build patios that hold up through years of winter abuse. Whether you’re planning a new paver project or want to fix an old one, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation — and let’s make sure your patio is built to last.