How To Install A Brick Patio Over Concrete

A brick patio is a great way to add beauty and value to your home. It's a relatively easy project to do yourself, and it can be completed in a weekend. Here are the steps on how to install a brick patio over concrete:

Materials You'll Need:

Bricks
Sand
Polymeric sand
Edging
Level
Trowel
Tamper
Wheelbarrow
Safety glasses
Work gloves

Step 1: Prepare the Concrete Surface

The first step is to prepare the concrete surface. This involves cleaning the concrete and removing any dirt or debris. You can use a pressure washer to clean the concrete, or you can simply scrub it with a stiff brush and soapy water. Once the concrete is clean, allow it to dry completely.

Step 2: Lay Out the Bricks

Once the concrete is dry, you can start laying out the bricks. Start by laying out a row of bricks along one edge of the patio. Use a level to make sure that the bricks are level. Once the first row is complete, continue laying out the bricks in rows until the entire patio is covered.

Step 3: Fill the Joints with Sand

Once the bricks are laid out, you need to fill the joints with sand. Use a trowel to spread the sand evenly over the joints. Once the joints are filled, use a tamper to compact the sand. This will help to keep the bricks in place and prevent them from shifting.

Step 4: Apply Polymeric Sand

Once the joints are filled with sand, you need to apply polymeric sand. Polymeric sand is a special type of sand that hardens when it is wet. This will help to keep the joints in place and prevent weeds from growing. To apply polymeric sand, simply spread it over the joints and then spray it with water. Allow the polymeric sand to dry completely.

Step 5: Install the Edging

The final step is to install the edging. Edging will help to keep the bricks in place and prevent them from shifting. There are many different types of edging available, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. To install the edging, simply dig a trench around the perimeter of the patio and then insert the edging into the trench. Use a level to make sure that the edging is level. Once the edging is installed, backfill the trench with dirt and tamp it down.