Working With & Understanding Flex Base

Think of Flex Base as the ultimate foundation for sturdy driveways, pathways, or temporary roads. You might hear it called “driveway gravel” or just plain “base.”

• What’s it made of? It’s a special mix of crushed rock – from larger 1.5-inch pieces down to fine dust.
• Why that mix? This blend is magic! It packs down incredibly tightly (compaction!) but still has a little give (flexibility!). This combo makes it perfect for handling traffic and weather.

Putting down Flex Base isn’t tricky, but a little prep goes a LONG way. Here’s how to nail it:

1. Prep That Ground! (Super Important!)
   • Think Drainage: Where does rainwater go now? Puddles are bad news! If water sits on the ground now, it’ll get trapped under your Flex Base later, softening the soil and leading to pesky potholes.
   • Slope it Right: Make sure your area slopes gently so water runs OFF and away. You might need to shape the ground a bit.
2. Level Check: Dig Down or Build Up?
   • Decide: Do you want your final surface to be level with the surrounding ground, or sit slightly raised?
   • If digging down, excavate enough soil to fit the depth of your Flex Base (we’ll cover that next!).
3. How Much Do You Need? (Don’t Guess!)
   • Measure your project area: Length (ft) x Width (ft) x Desired Depth (ft).
   • Give us your measurements: Call Lowery Sand & Gravel, or use the handy calculator on our website (lowerysand.com). We’ll figure out the exact amount you need.
   • Speedy Delivery: We pride ourselves on quick delivery – often next day, sometimes even same day!
4. The Big Question: How Deep Should It Be?
   • Go Thick! This is where you don’t want to skimp. A thicker base = a stronger, longer-lasting project.
   • Minimum: It is often recommend at least 6 inches of Flex Base before compaction (as it will pack down to about 4 inches).
   • Better: Going even deeper (say, 12 inches before compaction) gives seriously superior results.
   • Avoid: Planning for just “an inch or two” is a recipe for disappointment later.
5. Laying it Down: Layer by Layer
   • Spread: Work in layers, about 6 inches thick at a time. Use your tractor, skid steer, or even shovels for smaller areas.
   • Sprinkle: As you put down each layer, give it a light sprinkle with a water hose. Think “damp,” not “drenched.” This moisture is key for maximum compaction!
   • Pack it Tight: Compact each layer thoroughly. You can use the weight of your machine (like a track loader or tractor tires), or rent tools like a walk-behind plate compactor (great for smaller spots) or a ride-on roller for bigger jobs.
   • Repeat: Want a thicker base? Just repeat the spread, sprinkle, pack steps until you reach your goal depth!

Flex Base is a fantastic, reliable choice for your DIY project. Getting the prep and depth right makes all the difference.

Got questions? Need help calculating materials? Want to explore topping options?

Give us a shout at Lowery Sand & Gravel – we’re here to help you succeed!