How to Do a Brick Edge on a Driveway

A brick edge dresses up a bare driveway.

If you're looking for a way to dress up an otherwise bland driveway, consider adding an edge with bricks. The geometric shape of the bricks and the contrasting colors will add a pleasing accent note to the bare symmetry of the driveway's space. Laying bricks to make an edge for your driveway isn't a technically difficult job, and the average homeowner will find it well within his or her abilities.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Calculator
• Small shovel or garden trowel
• Bucket or wheelbarrow
• Sand
• Rubber mallet
• Level
• Broom

Instructions

1. Measure the length of your driveway edge with a tape measure. To determine how many bricks you'll need, divide the length of your driveway by the length of an individual brick. Purchase your bricks.

2. Using a small shovel or garden trowel, dig a small trench along the side of the driveway that is one inch deeper than the depth of your bricks and slightly wider than the width. Dispose of the dirt in a bucket or wheelbarrow as you go.

3. Fill the bottom 2 inches of the trench with sand.

4. Place your bricks into the trench, one at a time, and pound on each brick with a rubber mallet to set it firmly in place in the sand. Check the alignment of the bricks periodically with a level to make sure you're setting them in evenly.

5. Sprinkle a thin layer of sand on the border, and sweep it firmly into the edges and spaces between the bricks with a stiff broom.

References

• "The Complete Guide to Decorative Landscaping With Brick and Masonry"; Edward J. Heddy and Pete Peterson; 2000