Cheap way to compact sub-base?

[Ana Maiden]

Building a shed base for a 6ft by 7ft 5' shed and I've done enough research to learn 50mm sub-base (MOT Type 1) followed by sharp sand / cement dry mix is the way to build a decent base. A lot of people talking about hiring wacker plates but my budge it too small to spend £35 a day on such a .. so wondering if anyone has any idea of cheaper ways to compact the sub-base?


B & Q has a video where they use a piece of timber and hit it with a rubber mallet to compact the base but they're using ballast, not sub-base so not sure if that will be any good with sub-base? That would be ideal as I have a rubber mallet and pieces of timber..

 

[wrathkeg]

You can get a hand tamper for about £30 in Toolstation or Screwfix etc. Much easier than whacking a piece of timber.

 

[Ana Maiden]

Thanks wrathkeg, but is wacking a piece of timber still acceptable?

 

[wrathkeg]

Not tried it in that context. I suppose it will depend on how hard you whack it, how strong you are etc. Just try a bit and see if you can get it good and compacted in a sensible amount of time.

Also, if money is tight make sure you try local builders merchants for your materials (type 1, sand, cement etc). In my experience you can save a packet compared to the price of Wickes and the like.