Question
I recently removed an above ground swimming pool from my lawn. I now would like to build a paver patio in it's spot. The area where the pool was is already about 6" below grade. I would like to use about 4" of bank gravel for my base and then use either 2" of mason sand or stone dust for laying the pavers. My question is: do I need to remove the sand bed that is there now (about 5") or can I lay the bank gravel over it?

Regards,
Rick

Answer
I don't believe so, as the pad has been compacted by the pool sitting on it for so long (I am assuming that the above-ground pool has been there for a while!)

You are going to compact the new 4" of bank gravel using a plate compacter anyway, as this is standard procedure for paver installation:

http://www.grounds-mag.com/mag/grounds_maintenance_install_concrete_pavers/

Be sure and use an edge restraint system of some kind, be it pavers turned on edge, or some kind of metal/plastic restraints.

Good luck!  ~Marc