Reg. bricks vs. Pavers for patio


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Old 03-26-09, 07:07 AM
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Question Reg. bricks vs. Pavers for patio

I've read and been told to use pavers for a brick patio, however we've had enough regular brick donated to make a 8X10' one. What will happen to the finished patio if we use the regular bricks instead of the pavers? Will there be consequenses other than asthetic ones?
 
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Old 03-26-09, 08:01 AM
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No mason here...but as I understand...the brick used for this application will be subject to spalling (?) and cracking. It is not as hard as pavers and will wear from the foot traffic.

That said..if you desire a rustic worn look after a few years of exposure and use, I believe there are miles of brick paths and patios in Colonial Williamsburg that have been there for many years.

Oh, are these solid bricks or the more common type with the holes in the center?
 
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Old 03-26-09, 08:05 AM
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The kind w/holes in the center.
 
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Old 03-26-09, 08:25 AM
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I'm not sure if it would make a difference or not...but it gives more area for water to be absorbed. Most brick for walls and such will only have one face exposed to the elements.

Some of the experts will weigh in soon, I'm sure.
 
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Old 03-26-09, 09:19 AM
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Cored brick are hell on heels, but if you can live with that (or turn them up to expose the actual face) they are OK. They will not last as long as pavers, but they may still last longer than you live. Also, the cores make nice ant homes if you turn them face up.
 
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Old 07-02-09, 08:29 AM
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recycle

I am going to buy my pavers from a brick yard in Detroit. These were taken out of many streets and alleys in The D (Detroit) as we call it, to make room for redeveloped areas. They are over 50 years old and alot stronger than many new pavers sold which are 8 1/2 x 4x 3 in. thick. With the color that runs completly through no sealing needed. Just not a variety of colors. No core holes at all. Just .60 each.
 
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Old 07-03-09, 10:13 PM
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Mason in the old days we mostly used standard brick for paver's. One of the reasons was the availability of more colors. Also a true paver can be wider so two half can make a whole

If the brick is a solid brick and not a soft brick then no worries here. To test that hit one or so with a hammer and see if it Has soft thud or a higher pitch/tap. Higher pitch is a harder brick.
 
 

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