Masonry Magazine April 1995 Page. 19
Brick Paving
Brick paving utilizes its variety of size, shape, color and pattern to conform to the chosen theme. Brick pavers are produced in a variety of sizes. The most common sizes are shown in Table 1.
TABLE 1
Typical Brick Paver Sizes¹
| Width, in. (mm) | Length, in. (mm) | Height, in. (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 4 (100) | 8 (200) | |
| 3% (92) | 7% (194) | |
| 3% (89) | 7% (190) | Varies according to manufacturer and application, usually 1% (32), 2% (57), 2% (67) or 2% (70) |
| 7% (194) | 7% (194) | |
| 8 (200) | 8 (200) | |
The color of brick pavers range from buffs to dark browns, pinks to deep reds. The pavers can be a uniform color or there can be a range of colors. The color of brick will not fade over time. Different colors can be arranged within a pavement to achieve a truly dramatic look.
Almost any pattern is possible with brick. The pattern can be simple diagonals or more complicated cross or weave patterns. Different colored units can be used to create a flow pattern for pedestrian traffic. It may suggest a special theme used throughout the landscape plan. The more traditional brick paving patterns are shown in Fig. 2. Brick can also be cut to achieve a pattern; although in some cases, specially shaped pavers may be used.
Alternative sizes and shapes of pavers can also be manufactured or cut from standard units into the desired shape. For example, radial brick are often used to create curves or circles in the pavement, as shown in Figure 1.
Brick Paving Patterns
FIG. 2
BRICK PAVING SYSTEMS
Brick paving can be classified by two basic systems; flexible and rigid. Flexible brick pavements usually consist of mortarless brick paving over a sand setting bed and an aggregate base. Rigid brick pavements consist of mortared brick paving over a concrete slab. Mortarless brick paving can be used over any base. Mortared brick paving must be supported by an adequate concrete slab or the mortar joints or pavers may crack if the base is not sufficiently rigid. Examples of flexible and rigid brick pavements are shown in Figs. 3 and 4, respectively.
Although a flexible brick paving system is generally recommended, there are certain applications where rigid brick paving is desired. An example is brick steps, which requires the edges to be mortared together to keep the brick in place. The major advantages of using a flexible pavement include easier repairs to utilities be-
MASONRY-MARCH/APRIL, 1995 19