1- What type of base should I use for brick paving?
A flexible base consists of compacted crushed stone, gravel or coarse sand. Only mortar-less brick paving is suitable for this type of base. A semi-rigid base consists of asphalt concrete, commonly referred to as asphalt. A rigid base is defined as a reinforced or un-reinforced concrete slab on grade. Mortared brick paving may be placed over this type of base.

Flexible bases include crushed stone, gravel or coarse sand. Applications for flexible bases range from residential patios to city streets. Flexible paving systems are typically the most economical to install since less labor and fewer materials are involved. A flexible paving system allows easier repairs to utilities located beneath the pavement. Flexible pavements also allow for water to percolate down through the system instead of running off on the surface. A pavement subjected to heavy vehicular traffic requires a thicker base than a pavement subjected to pedestrian traffic.

Mortared brick paving can be used for any type of pedestrian or vehicular traffic in both interior and exterior applications. This type of assembly is especially well-suited for heavy vehicular areas such as streets or parking lots and where surface drainage is necessary.

2- Can brick pavers be installed over an existing concrete patio or walk way?
Brick paving can be installed over existing concrete or asphalt as long as it is in reasonably good shape. To ensure an adequate foundation for the brick, the existing concrete slab or asphalt should be inspected and repaired as necessary. Any cracks, chips, holes, ruts or spalls should be repaired in order to achieve a flat surface.

The brick can be installed either with or without mortar. An edging of metal or heavy-duty plastic should be placed around the perimeter of the brickwork and set to just below the height of the finished brick surface. Pavers can then be placed in the desired pattern on top of the sand. The bricks should be placed as close to each other as possible. It may be necessary to cut some of the brick near the edging. Once the brick are all in place, install mason's sand between the brick and over the surface. Sweep away excess surface sand and the brick pavement is ready for traffic.

3- Is brick that much more expensive than concrete?
Brick costs more than some other commonly used siding material because brick is a premium product, but it’s not nearly as expensive as you might think.

4- What kind of maintenance do brick pavers require?
Brick is one of the oldest building material in the world, and one of the reason it’s still so popular is that brick is extremely easy to maintain and keep looking great!

5- Are there many color and shape options available?
Yes. There are many available colors, shapes and textures that can compliment the style of your home. Brick is an all-natural building material that is made from a mix of clay and water that is then baked, or "fired," in a kiln until hardened. Different clays produce different colors, and there are many different types of clays. In addition, various natural coatings, such as sand and limestone, can also be added during the firing process to produce different colors, effects, textures and finishes. Even a brick's position in the kiln can affect the final look. When you combine these with the varieties of today's mortars, you can see that your color choices in brick are virtually endless.

6- Where can I find out about my color option in brick?
Our representative will show you a large variety of colors and shapes that are available.

7- Are pavers stronger than regular poured concrete?
Yes, they are stronger than concrete and more durable than black asphalt. They can take more abuse and last for generation with little maintenance.