Brick has been used in both building construction and garden design since practically the dawn of time. From courtyards in Roman villas to paths in medieval Germany to Victorian gardens in turn-of-the-century England and America, brick has long played a major role in outdoor living. If you’re planning a garden redesign soon, you might be wondering how brick can be worked into your modern space. The ideas in this guide will help you figure out how to incorporate this timeless material.
What are the benefits of using brick?
First thing’s first: Before you start seriously thinking about how to use brick in your garden remodel, it’s important for you to understand why it is such a great material for outdoor use. Brick does not fade in the sun, which is a major perk for our clients throughout North Carolina and South Carolina, where summers can be brutal. As a matter of fact, bricks tend to look even better with age than they do when they are brand new! Furthermore, professional bricklayers can create amazing and unique patterns with bricks, making them ideal for complex designs.
Use brick as a perimeter wall
If you are looking for a way to differentiate your property from the landscape around you, while still maintaining a natural look, consider a brick wall. If you reside in a neighborhood with a homeowners’ association, make sure this doesn’t violate any rules before you begin construction. Depending on what style of house you have, you may want to go with a contemporary looking wall that also includes glass elements or a traditional wall that is covered with ivy and has a wrought iron gate.
Use brick as a patio
It doesn’t get much more classic than a brick patio. No matter what size you’d like your new patio to be, brick is the perfect material to use. Your space will never look outdated, will work with many types of furniture, and will stand up to the heavy use Carolina homeowners often expect their outdoor living spaces to endure. Some homeowners, such as those who live in condominiums, turn the entirety of their small yards into brick-covered patios, leaving just enough grass to grow some flowers or shrubs. This is something to think about if you have a tiny outdoor area.
Use brick as a driveway
Brick driveways have an Old World feel that perfectly complements stately, traditional houses. They also require significantly less maintenance than asphalt driveways once they are laid. You won’t have to bother applying sealant every year and, even if brick cracks, it will still function, so you only need to replace it if you want to.
Use brick in conjunction with other materials
One of the perks of brick is that it has such a timeless look, it can be paired with just about any other material. Some homeowners, for instance, use it in conjunction with concrete or flagstone to create a layered effect around in-ground pools. Others alternate brick with an even pricier material, like slate, to create one-of-a-kind pathways. If you are confused about what combinations of materials will suit your home, talk to a professional landscaper or your contractor. Either of these experts will have helpful opinions.
If you’re ready to start your outdoor bricklaying project, give your local landscaping company a call to discuss your ideas. They enjoy helping out their clients create exterior living spaces that help them truly enjoy their homes to the fullest. No matter what you have in mind for your finished product, they will work hard to give you everything you’ve been dreaming of.