What Is a Brick Paver Used for?

Brick Patios

• Patios built from brick pavers create an outdoor setting that brings a sense of timelessness to even the most modern applications. Brick patios are most commonly laid onto a level bed of sand. Some brick pavers are made with spacing lugs along the side to insure regular joints and dimensions without the need for detailed measuring in the field. Joints are filled with sand to provide stability and create a finished look. Some patios are designed without spaces between the pavers and/or use pavers with beveled edge to accentuate patterns that create interest and variation.

Brick Driveways

• Brick pavers used for driveways are under a lot more pressure than those used for patios. Brick pavers made with a higher compressive strength are available for this application. Often the pavers for driveways are laid on a level slab of concrete, and joints are then filled with mortar. Due to increasing concerns about the environment, brick paved driveways are more frequently constructed with pervious materials in the joints to reduce water runoff that can tax over-stressed sewer systems.

Brick Pathways

• Brick pavers for paths do not require the same degree of compressive strength as brick pavers for driveways. Though most brick pavers are the standard size of a structural brick in all dimensions, some manufacturers offer "split" or "wire cut" brick pavers with a depth that is almost half the standard size. Using smaller bricks for lighter applications can save labor and material costs without compromising overall aesthetic.

Landscaping

• The relatively small dimensions of a brick paver allow it to readily follow the curvatures within a landscape and offer an affordable alternative for edging planters in the yard. Orienting them side by side sets up the opportunity to accentuate calculated radii or to just follow along the natural topography. Brick pavers can also be used to create a splash guard trough at the bottom of a rain gutter, bringing a measure of distinction to a relatively utilitarian function.