How deeply do pavers compact into sand layer?

[jlardino]

I am trying to plan for a patio of pavers and want the pavers to end up at current ground level. I live in Crystal Lake, IL. I have digested many posts and have already taken away many good tips - thanks to you all for those! My current plan is to excavate about 8", then compact the soil. I am getting hung up, however, on how to make the pavers end up flush to the existing ground level because I don't know how deeply they should be expected to compact down into the sand layer. All suggestions and direction welcome!

Your Friend,
John Lardino

[scl]

As long as your bedding sand is no deeper than 1", I usually figure 3/16", or a light 1/4". Hope that helps.
Scott

[jlardino]

Ok - 3/16 to 1/4 for an inch of bedding sand. Curiously, in my further research, I have found wide (relatively) swings in the recommended depth of bedding sand, and don't know if it's something that is particular to the Chicagoland area, or not. A neighbor of mine who is a landscaper recommended no more than an inch of sand to me...Everything else seems to be between 1 1/2" and 2" of sand...What does it matter?

Your Friend,
John

[AZTLANLC]

Taking what scl said into account I always like them to be once final compacted 1/8" higher so next season when they settle it's flush or just a little bit higher

[jlardino]

10-4 - plan ahead...Lots to learn about this...Putting out fire is easier, I think...

Thanks,
Your Friend,
John