If you want a patio, but you don't want a plain concrete slab, then consider a patio made of brick. You may want brick if your home has brick siding or just because brick is more attractive than concrete. A residential masonry contractor can build your patio with bricks so it's supported properly, level, and made to last a long time. Here's an overview of the process.
The Land Is Made Ready
If you don't have a patio already, the land has to be cleared and graded for drainage. If you already have a patio, the old patio has to be torn out, and some of the soil under it may need to be removed. When the land is clear, the soil can be compacted with a machine. Then a mix of dirt and gravel of various sizes can be poured on top and compacted. The final layer for the base is a layer of sand.
The sand has to be made perfectly level so the bricks are level. Plus, since a brick patio is put down brick by brick, an individual brick could sink if the base isn't level and compacted evenly.
The Bricks Are Arranged On The Base
Before work on your patio begins, your contractor will talk to you about the pattern design you want for the bricks. There are different ways to place the bricks on the ground for a variety of looks. Once you've chosen the look you like, the contractor plans how to put down the bricks. The bricks are placed next to each other so the joints can be filled with sand later.
Another thing your contractor may discuss with you is whether to use mortar like is used with brick siding or to use sand. Mortar can be used if that's the look you prefer, but sand does a better job for a brick patio, so your contractor may recommend sand for the space between bricks like traditional pavers use.
Once all the bricks are down, which may require cutting some bricks to fit like a puzzle, sand is poured over the top of the bricks. After that, the compacting machine is moved over the top of the patio to vibrate the sand and press it between the bricks. The sand keeps the bricks from moving and holds the patio together. The sides of the patio are held in place with edging so the bricks hold together for years.
The last step is to sweep off the excess sand from the surface of your new patio. The sand that's pressed between the bricks stays in place and isn't bothered by sweeping or rain.
For more information about residential masonry, contact a local contractor.