Step 5: Use a Hand Tamper

Use a Hand Tamper
Photo: Kolin Smith
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Using a hand tamper, compact the base. Measure the distance from the base to the level line to make sure the base stays level. If necessary, pour additional layers of paver base and tamp each one until the surface of the base at the low point of the slope is half the depth of one block, plus 1 inch, from ground level.
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    More in Yard & Garden

    Tools List

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    • mason's line
      Mason's line and Line level

    • square spade
      Spade

    • tamper
      Hand Tamper

    • four-foot level
      4-foot level

    • mallet
      Rubber Mallet

    • mason's chisel and maul
      Mason's Chisels and Maul

    • brick hammer
      Brick Hammer

    • caulk gun
      Caulk Gun

    Shopping List

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    Cast Concrete Block:
    Choose a block made specifically for freestanding walls, not retaining walls or pavers. To calculate how many blocks you need, multiply the length of the wall, in inches, by the height, and divide that figure by the area (length x height) of the side of one block. Add 10 percent to account for cuts and breakage.

    Paver Base:
    A mixture of ¾-inch crushed rock and stone dust. One yard covers 108 square feet 3 inches deep.

    Stone Dust:
    One yard covers 324 square feet 1 inch deep.

    Masonry Construction Adhesive