Open Grade Base Paver Installation in Metro Detroit
- Feb 7
- 2 min read
When homeowners in Metro Detroit invest in paver patios, walkways, driveways, or retaining walls, long-term performance depends on one critical factor: the base system.
At MayScape, we use a modern Open Grade Base system on every paver and wall project we install across Grosse Pointe, St. Clair Shores, Troy, Washington Township, and surrounding Southeast Michigan communities. This approach eliminates sand from the base and delivers superior drainage, stability, and durability in Michigan’s demanding climate.
What Is an Open Grade Base System?
An Open Grade Base (OGB) system is a free-draining foundation designed to move water through the base rather than trapping it beneath your pavers.
Our standard MayScape installation includes:
7 inches of compacted crushed concrete for structural strength
1 inch of 3/8” chip stone as the bedding layer
No sand used in the base or bedding layer
This system is used for all of our:
Paver patios
Paver walkways
Paver driveways
Retaining and garden walls
Why Sand Bases Fail in Michigan
Traditional sand bedding systems are still common, but they are no longer considered best practice — especially in Southeast Michigan’s clay soils and freeze-thaw environment.
Issues with Sand Bedding Layers
Poor Drainage
Sand holds moisture, allowing water to sit beneath pavers. This leads to frost heave and surface movement during winter.
Washout & Settlement
Rain and snowmelt gradually wash sand out from under pavers, causing uneven surfaces, sunken areas, and joint failure.
Shifting Under Load
Sand moves under pressure, making it unsuitable for driveways and high-traffic walkways.
Increased Maintenance
Sand encourages weed growth, ant activity, and frequent joint repairs.
Benefits of an Open Grade Base System
Improved Drainage
Open Grade Base materials allow water to flow freely, reducing frost-related movement and base saturation.
Long-Term Stability
Crushed concrete compacts tightly, while chip stone locks pavers in place, preventing shifting and settling.
Ideal for Driveways & High-Traffic Areas
This system supports heavier loads, making it ideal for paver driveways and commercial-grade walkways.
Reduced Maintenance
With no sand to wash out, homeowners experience fewer weeds, cleaner joints, and longer-lasting results.
Built for Michigan Winters
Open Grade Base systems perform exceptionally well through repeated freeze-thaw cycles, especially in areas like Grosse Pointe and St. Clair Shores.
Why MayScape Uses Open Grade Base on Every Project
We don’t view Open Grade Base as an upgrade — it’s our standard.
By using this system on every paver patio, walkway, driveway, and retaining wall, MayScape delivers:
Longer-lasting installations
Better performance in Michigan soils
Fewer repairs and callbacks
Higher overall value for homeowners
Serving Metro Detroit with Professional Paver Installation
MayScape proudly provides paver installation and landscape construction services throughout:
Grosse Pointe
St. Clair Shores
Troy
Washington Township
Metro Detroit & Southeast Michigan
Whether you’re planning a new paver patio, replacing an aging walkway, installing a paver driveway, or building retaining walls, our team builds every project on a foundation designed to last.
Ready to Start Your Paver Project?
If you’re considering a paver project and want it built the right way from the ground up, MayScape is here to help.
👉 Learn more and request a consultation on our homepage:
