How to Put Down Landscape Bricks: A Comprehensive Guide to Installing Landscape Bricks for Your Outdoor Space

Laying landscape bricks is a straightforward way to create beautiful borders, garden paths, or patios that elevate your outdoor space. The process requires careful planning, the right materials, and a methodical approach for a professional and long-lasting finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you put down landscape bricks correctly, whether you're edging a flower bed or building a walkway.

How to Put Down Landscape Bricks: Step-by-Step

1. Plan Your Layout

Before breaking ground, outline your project and measure the space. Use a hose or string to mark curved lines, or stakes and twine for straight borders. Be sure to account for the width of the bricks and any curves in your design.

2. Gather Materials and Tools

You'll need landscape bricks, a shovel, tape measure, level, sand or gravel, landscaping fabric (optional), a rubber mallet, and a tamper. For design efficiency, choosing uniform bricks ensures a seamless look, but mixing shapes and tones can create a more eclectic style.

3. Prepare the Ground

Dig a trench along your planned line, making it about twice as wide and deep as your bricks. A typical depth is 4–6 inches, depending on the brick thickness. Remove weeds and roots, and fill the trench base with 2–3 inches of gravel or sand for stability and drainage.

4. Level the Base

Use a tamper to compact the base material. Then, smooth out the sand or gravel so your bricks will sit level. Check your base with a level for accuracy.

5. Lay the Bricks

Start by placing the first brick at the edge or a corner. Gently tap it into place with a rubber mallet. Continue placing bricks, keeping them tight together with even spacings. Regularly check the alignment and level as you progress. For curves, lay bricks so their edges overlap slightly, or use smaller pieces to accommodate the radius.

6. Fill the Gaps and Secure

Once all bricks are down, brush sand or fine gravel over the surface and into the joints. This locks the bricks and prevents shifting. For extra stability, you may also use edging restraints along the sides.

7. Finishing Touches

Sweep away excess sand and water the area to help the sand settle. Add soil and plants along the border, or place mulch to complete the look.

As a designer, I see landscape brickwork as an opportunity to connect outdoor living with your home’s interior style. Coordinating the outdoor material palette with your home's existing design ensures harmony and extends the sense of space—from inside to outside.

Tips 1:

Consider how lighting will impact your finished brickwork—both for aesthetics and safety. Integrating low-voltage path lights or solar lanterns along your brick borders provides subtle illumination that enhances both function and visual appeal at night.

FAQ

Q: What type of bricks should I use for landscaping?

A: Choose landscape-specific bricks or pavers—these are weather-resistant and designed for outdoor applications. Classic clay or concrete bricks work well for most projects.

Q: Do I need to use landscaping fabric under my bricks?

A: Landscape fabric is optional but can help prevent weeds from growing between bricks and extend the longevity of your project.

Q: How do I keep my landscape bricks from shifting over time?

A: Compact the base thoroughly, use joint sand, and consider installing plastic or metal edging restraints to keep the bricks firmly in place.

Q: Can landscape bricks be used for curved borders?

A: Yes, simply lay bricks in short segments, rotate them slightly, or cut them as needed to match the contour of your design.

Q: How do I maintain my landscape brick project?

A: Periodically sweep in fresh sand to fill gaps and keep weeds at bay. Inspect for settling and re-level bricks if necessary, especially after heavy rains or freeze-thaw cycles.