What is the minimum sub base thickness for a residential paver pathway?

What is the minimum sub base thickness for a residential paver pathway?

• A. 5 inches
• B. 3 inches
• C. 4 inches
• D. 6 inches

Answer: (B)

For a residential paver pathway, the key idea is providing enough support and drainage for light foot traffic without adding unnecessary cost. A compacted granular sub-base of about 3 inches gives the pavers a stable, even platform to distribute loads to the subgrade and helps prevent settlement and frost-related movement. It’s thin enough to be economical for typical pedestrian use, yet thick enough to improve bearing capacity and drainage when combined with the base and sand setting bed above it. Increasing the sub-base thickness beyond this is generally reserved for areas with heavier loads or poorer soils, not standard residential paths.

For a residential paver pathway, the key idea is providing enough support and drainage for light foot traffic without adding unnecessary cost. A compacted granular sub-base of about 3 inches gives the pavers a stable, even platform to distribute loads to the subgrade and helps prevent settlement and frost-related movement. It’s thin enough to be economical for typical pedestrian use, yet thick enough to improve bearing capacity and drainage when combined with the base and sand setting bed above it. Increasing the sub-base thickness beyond this is generally reserved for areas with heavier loads or poorer soils, not standard residential paths.