Discover the key to a long-lasting, beautiful paver patio: the perfect base. Our comprehensive guide explores the best materials and techniques for creating a solid foundation for your outdoor space. Learn why crushed stone and sand are superior to dirt, and how to properly prepare your sub-base, base layer, and bedding sand. We'll cover the pros and cons of dense-graded, open-graded, and synthetic bases, helping you choose the right option for your specific project. From proper drainage to preventing settling and shifting, master the essential steps to ensure your paver patio stands the test of time.