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What are Brick Pavers?

Nychole Price
Nychole Price

Brick pavers are used throughout commercial and residential buildings for use in landscaping areas of high traffic. Pavers made from brick are less expensive than other types of pavers, but hold up well under the most extreme conditions. They are environmentally friendly due to the fact they are made from natural clay found in soil. Brick pavers are an investment that will last a lifetime because there are not any added dyes or pigments, leaving its integrity intact.

There are several uses for brick pavers, including driveways, sidewalks and patios. They are very durable and can handle large amounts of weight without cracking or becoming chipped. When brick pavers are manufactured, they are fired in a kiln, giving them a rough, porous texture. This process gives them a non-slip surface, making them ideal for use around a pool or pond, where water is likely to be present. The large amounts of water and chlorine will not cause the color to fade, or the bricks to erode.

Brick pavers hold up well under extreme conditions.
Brick pavers hold up well under extreme conditions.

Pavers made from brick are very low-maintenance, meaning they are easy to clean and upkeep. Chemicals that are spilled on the pavers will not cause stains or erosion. When oil, gas, food or debris dirty the brick, it can be easily cleaned with a mild detergent and water, leaving it looking brand-new.

Clay brick pavers come in several different shapes, making them the paver of choice for many homeowners. Brick pavers can be separated into one of three different categories: fully interlocked, interlocked on one axis and square categories. Fully interlocking brick pavers are best for use in areas that may experience a lot of shifting, such as driveways. The other pavers work well in areas with little or no foot traffic. Within these categories are various shapes, including keyhole shaped, fan shaped, X-shaped, W- shaped, and parallelogram pavers.

Brick pavers are environmentally-friendly because they are made from natural clay.
Brick pavers are environmentally-friendly because they are made from natural clay.

There are several different colors of clay pavers available for purchase. Most pavers are red, green, brown or buff. From these four primary colors, hundreds of more colors can be created, including light cream, dark brown, orange, pink and purple. For those who want a more dramatic flare to their landscape, metallic specks can be achieved through the addition of iron specks. When installing the pavers, it is recommended to use darker colored pavers in high traffic areas and leave the light colors for around the garden.

Discussion Comments

Talentryto

@heavanet- A good tip to follow that will keep your brick paver patio looking great is to spread a layer of sand over it once it is in place. This will fill in cracks between the bricks and prevent weeds from growing through them.

You can use basic playground sand for this job. Simply pour it all around your brick patio, and sweep away any excess. Over time, the sand will settle into place, so you may have to add more from time to time.

Spotiche5

@heavanet- I think that the most important step to building a patio with brick pavers is the first step. In order for your new patio to stay in place, you must prepare the ground. Making sure it is smooth and even will help to prevent your brick pavers form shifting position over time.

First, dig up all plants and weeds, and break up the soil. Remove any rocks or debris that will get in the way. Next, even out the area by spreading the dirt around, and removing any excess. Your third step will be to flatten out the ground with a shovel or roller. The best tool for the job will depend on how lumpy and bumpy the area is where your pavers will be placed.

Finally, spread plastic sheets, trash bags, or tarps over the ground to prevent weeds and grass from growing in between your bricks. Now you will be ready to construct an easy and affordable patio that will last for years of enjoyment.

Heavanet

I'm looking for some tips for building a patio with brick pavers. I like the idea that they are less expensive than other types of pavers, and the fact that I can create a patio without mixing and setting concrete. I just want to make sure that I know what I'm doing when I put them in place so my new patio will last.

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    • Brick pavers hold up well under extreme conditions.
      By: Thiti
      Brick pavers hold up well under extreme conditions.
    • Brick pavers are environmentally-friendly because they are made from natural clay.
      By: Photocreo Bednarek
      Brick pavers are environmentally-friendly because they are made from natural clay.
    • In the past, traditional brick was frequently used for sidewalks and other paved areas.
      By: SOMATUSCANI
      In the past, traditional brick was frequently used for sidewalks and other paved areas.