Hello everybody,

I was hoping to get some advice on a paver patio that I am building for my home. It is located in the Chicago area, so we will be subject to freeze thaw, and we do have clay soil.

We had some CA-7 delivered (3/4" crushed limestone gravel, washed, but with no stone dust) and are planning to use that for the base. It does have smaller pieces all the way down to about 3/16" or so. I am thinking this CA-7 will be helpful with the clay soil, from a drainage standpoint.

I am now reading the CA-6 (or Grade 8) is more commonly used for paver bases. We are installing a 6" stone base, and are about to compact the second 3" lift this weekend. We are using a vibratory plate compactor.

I am planning to install a layer of geotexile over the 6" stone base to keep the paver bedding sand from migrating down into the crushed gravel.

Does anybody see any issues with using the CA-7 instead of the CA-6 for the paver base? I think it will provide better drainage, but wasn't sure it it would create any longevity issues, such as pavers becoming uneven or sinking.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!