Groundwork and base planner
Wacker plate compaction planner
Choose a sensible wacker plate or compaction route for patio bases, paths, MOT Type 1 and sand beds before you hire.
Answer the job questions
Build the pre-hire card
Use the selectors to create a plain-language hire conversation starter. It updates on the page and avoids hidden result URLs.
Boundary
What this planner will and will not do
- This is a pre-hire planning aid, not a site-specific risk assessment.
- Use manufacturer instructions, hire company guidance and competent advice where needed.
- If the result says stop, treat that as a reason to clarify the job before hiring.
Merged guide
Wacker plate for patio base depth: what to check before hire
Plan patio sub-base depth, lift thickness, passes and edge risks before hiring a wacker plate.
A wacker plate is usually chosen after you know the sub-base material, loose depth, compacted target depth and access route. Deep fill should be compacted in layers, not flattened once at the end.
Checks before hire
- Measure loose depth and target compacted depth
- Keep each lift shallow enough for the machine class
- Plan several passes in different directions
- Protect drains, edgings and inspection covers
What to tell the hire desk
Describe the job, material, scale, access and what would make you stop. That gives the supplier a better route to the right machine, consumables and PPE than asking for a tool name alone.