Step-by-Step Guide: Installing a Stunning Brick Driveway

A brick driveway adds a touch of classic elegance and enduring charm to any home. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, a properly installed brick driveway is incredibly durable, low-maintenance, and can significantly increase your property’s value. While it might seem like a daunting task, installing a brick driveway is achievable for the motivated DIYer with careful planning, the right tools, and a thorough understanding of the process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from initial planning to the final touches, ensuring you create a beautiful and functional driveway that will last for years.

Before You Begin: Planning and Preparation

Before you even think about laying bricks, meticulous planning is crucial. This stage lays the groundwork for a successful project, preventing costly errors and ensuring your driveway looks and performs as intended.

1. Design and Layout

• Measure Your Space: Accurately measure the area for your driveway, considering not only the length and width, but also any curves, angles, or other unique features. Use a measuring tape and stakes to mark out the perimeter.
• Determine Your Pattern: There are numerous brick patterns to choose from – running bond, herringbone, basketweave, and more. Research different patterns and select one that complements your home’s architecture and your personal style. Consider the complexity of the pattern, as some are easier to install than others. Simple patterns like running bond are ideal for beginners.
• Plan for Drainage: Proper drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation that can damage your driveway and foundation. Consider the natural slope of your land and if you will need to incorporate a slight pitch in the driveway design. You may also need to include a drainage channel or swale if the existing landscape doesn’t provide sufficient drainage.
• Check Local Regulations: Contact your local building department to inquire about permits, zoning requirements, and any restrictions on driveway installations. This will help avoid any legal issues down the line.

2. Material Selection and Calculation

• Choose Your Bricks: Select paving bricks designed for outdoor use. They are typically more durable and resistant to weather than common building bricks. Consider color, texture, and size, as well as availability and cost. Common paver bricks are typically clay or concrete and offer a wide range of style and color options.
• Calculate the Quantity: Calculate how many bricks you need based on the area and the brick size. Account for waste by adding an additional 5-10%. Brick suppliers can often assist you with this calculation.
• Base Material: You will need a sufficient amount of base material, such as gravel (e.g., crushed stone, class 5), to create a stable foundation for the bricks. A typical base layer is between 6-12 inches thick, depending on the soil condition. You’ll also need sand for a setting bed over the compacted gravel. Ask your local building supply company what they recommend for your soil conditions.
• Edging Material: Choose an edging material to contain the bricks along the sides of the driveway. Options include concrete pavers, steel edging, or plastic edging.
• Joint Sand: You’ll need joint sand to fill the gaps between the bricks once they’re installed. Polymeric sand is preferred as it helps stabilize the brickwork and resist weeds and insects.
• Tools and Equipment: Gather all necessary tools including: a shovel, level, tamper, wheelbarrow, garden hose, measuring tape, string line, rubber mallet, a rake, a plate compactor (available for rent), a broom or push broom and safety glasses, gloves and work boots.

3. Site Preparation

• Clear the Area: Remove all existing vegetation, topsoil, rocks, and debris from the driveway area. This might involve manual digging, using a sod cutter, or renting an excavator for larger areas.
• Excavate the Area: Excavate the area to the depth required for your base material. The depth of the excavation depends on the thickness of your brick pavers and the base layer of gravel and sand. Typically, you need to excavate 8 to 16 inches deep, allowing for a 6-12 inch gravel base, 1-2 inches of sand and the thickness of your paver brick.
• Compact the Subgrade: Use a plate compactor to compact the exposed subgrade soil. This is critical to prevent settling and ensure the longevity of your driveway.
• Install Edging: Install the edging material along the perimeter of the excavated area. This will define the boundaries of your driveway and contain the bricks. Ensure that the edging is flush with the subgrade and secured properly.

The Installation Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that the preparation is complete, it’s time to begin installing the brick driveway. Remember to take your time, work methodically, and double-check your work at each stage.

1. Lay the Base Material

• Spread the Gravel: Pour the gravel base material into the excavated area, spreading it evenly with a shovel and rake to the desired thickness. Depending on your soil conditions, you might do this in layers, compacting each layer separately.
• Compact the Base: Use a plate compactor to compact the gravel base thoroughly. Multiple passes will be necessary to achieve a firm, stable base. Ensure the base is level and has the correct slope for drainage.
• Verify the Level: Double check the slope of the gravel base by using a level. Ensure water will run off in the desired direction. You can use a string line to verify a consistent slope across the width and length of the driveway.

2. Prepare the Setting Bed

• Add Sand: Spread a 1-2 inch layer of sand evenly over the compacted gravel base. Sand provides a smooth setting bed for the brick pavers.
• Level the Sand: Use a long straight board or a screed to level the sand bed. A screed is a flat board or a piece of lumber that you can drag across the surface to create a smooth, consistent layer of sand. It is best to use two metal pipes for consistent height while leveling sand. Set your pipe levelers at the depth you want your sand bed and pull the flat board across the levelers to create your bed. Avoid walking on the leveled sand bed to ensure that the level remains consistent.

3. Lay the Bricks

• Start the Pattern: Begin laying the bricks according to the chosen pattern. Start at the edge, working your way across. Pay attention to your pattern alignment. Use a string line or reference points to maintain straight lines and consistent spacing.
• Set the Bricks: Gently place each brick into the sand bed, ensuring it’s snug against its neighbors. Avoid pressing the bricks too hard into the sand. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap each brick into place if needed, ensuring that each brick is level with the adjacent bricks. Don’t tap too hard.
• Cut Bricks as Needed: You will likely need to cut bricks to fit around edges or obstacles. Use a brick splitter or a wet saw with a diamond blade for clean, accurate cuts. Safety glasses must be used when cutting bricks.
• Maintain Spacing: Ensure consistent spacing between bricks. The space between bricks should be between 1/8 and 3/8 inch depending on the type of brick you are using. Some bricks have small nubs along the sides that are designed to provide correct spacing. You can also use small spacers to maintain consistent gaps.
• Continuously Check for Level: Periodically check the level of the brick surface as you lay. Use a level to ensure that the pavers are flat and even, making adjustments as needed to keep the overall surface level.

4. Compact the Bricks

• Use a Plate Compactor: After all the bricks are laid, use a plate compactor to compact the entire surface. This helps to settle the bricks and level the surface. Use a plate compactor with a rubber or plastic mat on the bottom to prevent damaging the surface of your new brickwork.
• Multiple Passes: Compact the surface using multiple passes in different directions to ensure that each paver is firmly seated in the sand.

5. Apply Joint Sand

• Spread the Sand: Once the bricks are compacted, spread joint sand over the entire surface. Make sure the sand is fully dry for best results.
• Fill the Joints: Use a broom to sweep the sand into the joints between the bricks. Sweep in different directions until the joints are completely filled. Be sure to get all the gaps filled completely to provide a firm structure.
• Compaction (optional): If you are using polymeric sand, you will need to compact with a plate compactor again after the joints are filled. This will help to set the polymeric sand. However, if not using polymeric sand, this step is not recommended.
• Clean the Surface: Use a leaf blower or a broom to remove excess sand from the surface of the driveway after filling joints.
• Water Activation (if using polymeric sand): If you are using polymeric sand, after sweeping and cleaning excess sand, very lightly water the surface to activate the binding agents in the sand, which will harden and hold the paver bricks firmly in place. The amount of water is usually light, often a mist. Do not over water. Do not allow any standing water to remain on the surface. Follow the instructions from the polymeric sand manufacturer carefully.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance

With your brick driveway installed, you can add some finishing touches and establish a routine maintenance schedule to keep it looking great for years to come.

1. Seal the Driveway (Optional)

Sealing your brick driveway with a paver sealer can provide an extra layer of protection against stains, fading, and weather damage. Sealing also enhances the color of the bricks and prevents weeds and mold from growing. However, some people prefer the natural look of unsealed bricks. Consider your preferences and climate when deciding whether to seal your driveway.

2. Regular Cleaning

• Remove Debris: Regularly sweep or blow leaves, dirt, and debris off the driveway to prevent staining and buildup.
• Wash Periodically: Use a garden hose to rinse off the driveway, or use a pressure washer if necessary to remove stubborn dirt and grime. When using a pressure washer, exercise caution as to not remove the joint sand.
• Address Stains Quickly: Treat oil, grease, and other stains as soon as possible using a specialized cleaner for brick pavers.

3. Weed Control

Regularly check for weeds and remove them to prevent them from taking root. Polymeric sand can significantly help in deterring weeds. A pre-emergent herbicide can be used to prevent weeds as well.

4. Inspection and Repairs

Periodically inspect your driveway for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose bricks. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further issues.

Final Thoughts

Installing a brick driveway is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning, thorough preparation, and a methodical approach, it is an achievable project for homeowners. The result will be a beautiful and durable driveway that enhances the value and curb appeal of your home. Remember to prioritize safety, work with care, and consult with professionals when needed. Following the steps in this comprehensive guide will put you on the path to a stunning brick driveway that you can be proud of for years to come. If you are uncertain about any aspect of this project, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a qualified professional contractor.