Crushed concrete for a gravel patio seating area

[AmboGuy]

Hello, so as per my previous posts I've dug out a circular area with a diameter of 5.7 m for a sub base of 150mm. I want to create patio with a gravel top layer and have a little fire pit in the middle.

To be honest, I've asked around for quotes for MOT type 1 (I need 6 tons) and I've been quite shocked at the price! I am a complete novice so I really had no idea how much it would be

I was wondering if, as I won't be using paving slabs, could I just have a sub base of crushed concrete underneath a top gravel layer? I would be using a whacker plate in between the sub and top layer so I'll try and get it down as much as I could.

If not could I use a combination of say crushed concrete whacked down with some type 1 on top of that?

I know type 1 is the best but I'm just trying to cut some costs a bit.

 

[mrrusty]

You don't need a 150mm sub-base for a gravel area - half that, or even 50mm if the ground is fairly solid is enough. Then a geotextile and then 40mm max of gravel (use 15-20mm - if you use very small gravel you'll regret it - it gets stuck in peoples shoes and cats think it's a huge litter tray) https://www.pavingexpert.com/gravel01

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Look up self binding gravel on Paving Expert: https://www.pavingexpert.com/gravel05

 

[AmboGuy]

Sorry just to clear up I meant to say a 100mm sub base with a 50mm gravel top base on that.

So would crushed concrete be ok to use for a 100mmnsub base?

 

[AmboGuy]

Anyone?

 

[mrrusty]

IMO yes, it'll be fine.

 

[Cheslea2010]

Make sure the crushed concrete has plenty of fines in or it won't compact and the larger material within the CC will come to the surface over time. Personally, for the difference in cost I wouldn't mess around and would go straight in with Type 1. Do it right, do it once.

 

[Cheslea2010]

Look up self binding gravel on Paving Expert: https://www.pavingexpert.com/gravel05

Self Binding Gravel tends to scuff when tables/chairs are dragged across it

 

[AmboGuy]

Yeah I've just gone for type 1 now. I got it a cash deal for £300 delivered.