HPB (High Performance Bedding)
The gold standard base material for patios, walkways, and retaining walls in Northumberland County.
What is HPB?
High Performance Bedding (HPB) is a premium base material specifically designed for interlocking pavers and natural stone. It's a blend of clear stone (typically 1/4" to 3/8" limestone) that provides exceptional drainage and self-compacting properties.
Unlike traditional crusher run or screenings, HPB contains no fine particles. This unique composition allows water to drain freely through the material, preventing the freeze-thaw damage that's common in Northumberland County's climate.
Key Properties
- Self-compacting: Sets hard without mechanical compaction
- Excellent drainage: Water flows through freely
- No fines: Won't wash away or become muddy
- Stable base: Provides uniform support for pavers
- Freeze-thaw resistant: Ideal for Ontario winters
Quick Facts
| Particle Size | 1/4" to 3/8" |
| Density | ~1.35 tonnes/cubic yard |
| Best For | Patios, walkways |
| Depth Required | 6-8" (walkways), 10-12" (patios), 15-18" (driveways) |
| Compaction | Self-compacting |
Calculate HPB Needs
Use our calculator to determine exactly how much HPB you need for your project.
HPB Calculator →Common Uses for HPB
Patio Base
The ideal foundation for interlock patios. Provides stable support and excellent drainage to prevent settling and shifting.
Walkway Base
Perfect for garden paths and front walkways. Easy to level and provides a solid walking surface.
Retaining Walls
Use as the base course for garden walls. Ensures proper drainage behind the wall blocks.
Installation Tips
1. Excavation
Excavate to the proper depth: paver thickness + 1" bedding sand + 6-8" HPB base for walkways, 10-12" for patios, 15-18" for driveways. For Northumberland County, use 6" depth for freeze protection.
2. Geotextile Fabric
Lay geotextile fabric at the bottom of your excavation to prevent soil migration into the HPB.
3. HPB Placement
Spread HPB evenly in 2-3" lifts. Use a rake to level - no plate compactor needed!
4. Leveling
Use screed pipes and a 2x4 to create a perfectly level surface. Maintain 1/4" per foot slope for drainage.
5. Bedding Sand
Add 1" of concrete sand on top of HPB before laying pavers. Do not compact the sand.
⚠️ Important Note
Not for driveways: HPB is NOT recommended for vehicle traffic areas. Use Granular A or crusher run for driveways and parking areas.
Where to Buy HPB in Northumberland County
HPB is available from most landscape supply yards and aggregate dealers in the area:
- Local landscape supply centers
- Aggregate dealers
- Some home improvement stores
- Direct from quarries (bulk orders)
Note: We do not sell materials. Contact local suppliers for current pricing and availability.
HPB vs Other Base Materials
| Feature | HPB | Screenings | Crusher Run |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drainage | Excellent | Poor | Good |
| Compaction | Self-compacting | Requires compacting | Requires compacting |
| Frost Resistance | Excellent | Poor | Good |
| Best Use | Patios, Walkways | Leveling only | Driveways |
| Ease of Use | Very Easy | Moderate | Moderate |