No matter how you look at it, there are always pros and cons to every material you choose to work with for home remodeling and improvement projects.
More often than not, when homeowners decide to do some paving, they feel a bit undecided about whether to go for concrete or brick pavers.
Why Choose Brick Pavers?
Whether you are building a new brick walkway from scratch or doing some repair work, brick pavers are quick and relatively easy to install. They are at their best when used in high traffic areas such as driveways and walkways. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, textures, and patterns, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Building a driveway from scratch can take as little as one week. The same can be said other structures. In less than a week, you can literally have a brand new pool deck, or outdoor living space.
They also offer flexible integrity. y78b This means that, when the underlying soil moves, brick pavers automatically adjust to accommodate for the change. It can maintain shape while still keeping its integrity. This also prevents your whole sidewalk cracking when the grounds sags in one area.
Brick is a classic building material that lends a timeless look to your landscape.
Most reputable brick paver manufacturers offer a substantial warranty. If they don’t, you should reconsider. Expect a 20+years to life.
Another factor environmentally conscious homeowners find attractive is the fact that brick pavers are made using natural clay material. This automatically turns the product into an eco-friendly option that will last for years.
Cons of brick pavers
How Much Do Brick Pavers Cost?
The cost of brick pavers can fluctuate depending on your regional location and the quality of the product you opt for. National averages tend to differ and you can expect to pay anywhere between $0.25 – $4.00 per brick paver.
Naturally, it’s always recommended that you go for professional installation so that you can get the finish and look and look you imagined. Professional installation can start at about $10 per sq. ft., but can climb to $20 per sq. ft. depending on your region and the contractor you choose to work with.
Should you opt for thin brick pavers, expect to budget for anywhere around $0,25 -$3,00 each. Depending on how many you buy, you should be budgeting for anywhere between $4 – $15 per sq. ft.
Maintenance and Repair
Over time, brick pavers deteriorate due to exposure to moisture, sunlight, and particles that enter this porous material. With the correct maintenance, you can greatly increase the overall lifespan of your brick pavers for up to 30 years.
To ensure longevity, this may require you to wash your driveway or walkway at least twice per year. Before you wash, be sure to remove all the dirt and weeds. Once completed, leave the surface to dry for up to 48 hours. Once dry, you can pack the joints with sand if the surface requires.
However, to maximize the lifespan of your brick pavers, a sealer should be applied after each wash. Be sure to use a product specifically designed for brick pavers – which will protect your surface without changing the appearance of the bricks.
Get in Touch With Local Experts
When you are considering brick pavers, we highly recommend that you get in touch with a local expert. Even if you are a skilled DIYer, it often pays to consult with local experts to not only compare some prices but also discuss all your options.