The most common way to compact aggregate material is with a plate compactor, or a "ride-on" double-drum roller. (We do not recommend using a "walk-behind" roller that you fill with water. We believe it is inferior to compact with…given the other pieces of equipment you can use.) You should be able to rent a plate compactor or a double-drum roller at your local rental store.

Once you have decided what is the piece of equipment that is best for you. Go ahead and compact your base. A damp misting of the surface with water before each individual layer is compacted (be careful not to flood the surface with water at this point) will help the aggregate to compact well. It will also help bring the surface to a smoother finish.