Brick Driveway Cost

Typical costs:

• Brick pavers typically cost $0.50-$3 each; with professional installation a brick driveway can cost $10-$30 or more a square foot, or $3,000-$9,000 for 12'x25' or $9,600-$28,800 for 24'x40', depending on the complexity of the pattern, soil conditions and site drainage requirements, and any slopes or curves; additional features like a turn-around area or a retaining wall will increase the total cost.
• While many experts suggest that do-it-yourself installation of a brick patio or walkway can be a good way to save money, they typically recommend hiring professionals to construct a brick driveway, because of the sheer size of this labor-intensive project and because it's crucial that the installation be done correctly, especially compacting and leveling the supporting foundation.
• Because there are so many factors that affect the cost, driveway contractors typically do not charge by the square foot, but instead quote their total price for a specific project.

• A brick driveway is only as good as the surface beneath it; over time, a poor foundation can cause the bricks to settle unevenly. Typically a brick driveway is installed by removing any landscaping or existing pavement; excavating at least 10"-14", depending on thickness of the gravel layer and the bricks; compacting and leveling the subsoil for strength and proper drainage; laying down geo-synthetic woven fabric on clay or other poor soil; adding a 6"-12" layer of compacted and leveled gravel; adding a 1"-1.5" layer of concrete sand; and installing the brick pavers.
• Bricks are not a completely uniform shape, and must be laid out and fit together one by one. A properly installed brick driveway should last 25 years or longer. Clay brick pavers can be washed with water and detergent, and typically do not need to be sealed unless they come into contact with grease and oil on a regular basis.

• Because a driveway connects to a public street, there may be local regulations governing the width of the driving and the materials used to build it. Typically a permit will be required, and permit fees can vary from nominal to pricey, depending on location.

• Be aware that interlocking concrete pavers may sometimes be called brick pavers if they are shaped like traditional rectangular bricks, but they are made of concrete, not clay, and are typically less expensive. TodaysHomeowner.com lists the pros and cons of brick and concrete pavers[1] .
• Look for examples of brick driveway layouts and patterns. Landscape designer Susan Schlenger in New Jersey posts a photo gallery of brick driveway ideas[2] .
• A brick driveway can be installed by a landscaping contractor, a masonry contractor, a general building contractor (although the work may be subbed out to a specialist) or a handyman or other casual labor with strong excavation, grading and masonry skills. Ask family, friends, neighbors or the staff at local home improvement or hardware centers for recommendations.
• Get several estimates; ask for and check references (if possible, visit a driveway that is at least four years old, to see if any of the bricks have settled unevenly); and make sure the company is properly insured and licensed.

1.  www.todayshomeowner.com/how-to-choose-between-brick-and-concrete-pavers/
2.  www.landscape-design-advice.com/driveway-brick.html

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