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How to Maintain a Used Brick Driveway

Bricks lend classic style to a driveway, and can last for years when cared for properly. Whether installed over mortar or dry set in sand, bricks are vulnerable to water damage if the sand joints are not regularly replenished. While coating bricks with sealant is optional, it reduces maintenance by repelling water and making grease and oil stains easier to scrub off. Keeping a simple, annual maintenance routine improves the longevity and appearance of a brick driveway.

Things You'll Need

  • Stiff shop broom
  • Hose
  • Stain remover
  • Scrubbing pad
  • Masonry sand
  • Roller brush
  • Vinyl patch compound
  • Trowel
  • Pry bar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Push a stiff shop broom across the width of the driveway, and then down the length to remove as much loose dirt and debris as possible.

    • 2

      Hose down the bricks and pour stain remover over the surface. Allow the solution to sit for 15 minutes. Scrub it with a scrubbing pad and broom. Rise off the cleaning solution and wait for the driveway to dry.

    • 3

      Sprinkle fine masonry sand over the surface and brush it between the joints with the broom. Continue to sweep and pack the sand down until all of the gaps are filled. Brush off excess and moisten the driveway with the hose using enough to weigh the sand joints down. As they dry, they’ll harden in place, locking the bricks in position.

    • 4

      Dip a roller brush in transparent acrylic sealer once the sand joints dry, and apply a thin coat over the bricks. Wait a few hours for the first coat to dry and apply a second coat.

    • 5

      Assess the bricks once a week and repair any cracks or chips as they occur. Spread vinyl patch compound over the damage and smooth it with a trowel. If end bricks shift out of position, pry them up with a pry bar, set them back in position and pack the joints with more sand.