Permabase (DG)

What it is: Permabase is a water‑dilutable polymer binder for decomposed granite (DG) and crushed‑stone pathways. It applies white and cures clear, so surfaces keep their natural look while gaining cohesion, strength, and weather resistance.

Why it’s ideal for DG & natural paths

• Locks DG together for years—forms a durable, bound matrix that resists raveling.
• Clear‑cure finish—preserves the color and texture of native aggregates.
• Comfortable underfoot—bound, yet slightly resilient when designed and compacted correctly.
• Low‑gloss, natural aesthetic—no asphalt look.
• Easy to install—water‑dilutable; place as a slurry or spray‑in finish.

Best-fit applications

• Natural walking trails & park paths
• DG/crushed‑granite garden and estate paths
• Golf: cart paths & native areas
• Campus & resort walkways
• Multi‑use trails (pedestrian, light cart)

EverGreen Creek Venue Project

• Material - Decomposed granite
• Application - Plate compacted
• Adhesion -  Permabase DG

How to Build DG Paths with Permabase

Slurry Method (Recommended for DG)

Overview

For decomposed granite (DG) and crushed granite, use a two‑stage process: pre‑coat & compact, then slurry coat for high cohesion and a clean, natural finish.

Materials & Ratios

• Dilution for slurry: 4:1 water : Permabase (5 parts clean water to 1 part Permabase concentrate).
• Slurry yield guideline: ≈1 gallon of diluted Permabase makes ≈5 gallons of slurry when blended with DG.
• Rule of thumb: 1 gallon Permabase concentrate → ≈30 gallons finished slurry (because 1 gal concentrate + 4 gal water = 5 gal diluted, and each diluted gallon yields ~5 gal slurry).

Step‑by‑Step (Your Field Procedure)

1. Shape & pre‑compact the path with moist DG. Grade your alignment and compact to a firm, uniform surface (target near OMC).
2. Apply a coat of Permabase (pre‑coat) to the compacted DG. Aim for even coverage across the path.
3. Compact with a plate compactor. Make consistent passes to seat fines and lock the surface.
4. Cure for 24 hours. Protect from traffic and precipitation.
5. Mix the slurry. Blend DG with diluted Permabase (4:1 water:Permabase) to a smooth, pourable consistency (think pancake batter that flows when raked).
6. Spread the slurry on the path—and up the sides if the path is raised. Use a fine‑haired, wide but thin broom or a foam squeegee for an even, low‑streak finish.
7. Cure for 48–72 hours before allowing pedestrian or cart traffic (longer in cool/humid conditions).
8. Optional: Light fog coat of diluted Permabase after cure in high‑wear zones.

Notes & Tips

Edges & containment: Use edging (steel, bender board, stone, or concrete) for long‑term stability, especially on raised paths.

Weather: Avoid installation if rain is forecast during cure windows; in hot/dry weather, prevent flash‑drying with light misting as needed.

Finish: A foam squeegee often yields the smoothest, most natural look; the fine broom helps fill light surface texture.