Place and spread crushed gravel—the same material used locally for road-base aggregate—into the excavated trench.

Compact the gravel to a smooth and level surface. This is usually done with a vibratory plate compactor. If desired, place a thin layer of sand on top of the pad for final leveling. The sand will help to adjust the level of the base-course units. When completed, the leveling pad should be at least 6 inches thick.

Leveling Pad continued on next page