How To Install Landscape Brick Edging

Landscape brick edging adds a defined border to your garden beds, walkways, and driveways. It's a project most homeowners can tackle themselves, saving money and adding a personal touch to their outdoor spaces. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to installing brick edging, focusing on practical application and useful tips.

Planning and Preparation

Before you start digging, visualize the final product. Determine the length of edging needed and the desired layout. Consider the style of brick that complements your existing landscape. Common options include paver bricks, tumbled bricks, and simple rectangular bricks.

Gather Your Materials

You'll need:

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Bricks (calculate the quantity based on the length and brick size, adding extra for cuts and breakage)
Shovel
Measuring tape
Landscape fabric
Sand (for leveling)
Rubber mallet
Level
Wheelbarrow (optional, for moving materials)
Work gloves
Safety glasses
String and stakes (for marking a straight line)
Optional: Landscape adhesive

Prepare the Area

Clear the area where you'll be installing the brick edging. Remove any existing sod, plants, rocks, or debris. A clean, clear surface ensures a solid foundation.

Mark the boundary of your edging. Drive stakes into the ground along the desired line and run a string between them. This string serves as a visual guide for creating a straight and even edge. For curved edges, use a garden hose or flexible edging material to define the shape and then transfer the outline to the ground.

Installation Process

Dig the Trench

Dig a trench along the marked line. The depth of the trench depends on the desired height of the brick edging. A general guideline is to bury about one-third to one-half of the brick's height. This provides stability and prevents the bricks from toppling over. The width of the trench should be slightly wider than the brick's width to allow for adjustments.

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Tip: Digging straight down can be tricky. Use a spade to create a clean, vertical edge on the garden side of the trench. This will help maintain a neat and professional look.

Lay Landscape Fabric

Line the bottom of the trench with landscape fabric. This helps prevent weeds from growing up between the bricks and stabilizes the soil. Overlap the edges of the fabric by a few inches to ensure complete coverage. Extend the fabric a few inches beyond the edge of the trench on the garden side.

Add a Sand Base

Pour a layer of sand into the trench. The sand provides a level base for the bricks and allows for drainage. Use a shovel or trowel to spread the sand evenly. A layer of about 1-2 inches is usually sufficient. Compact the sand using a hand tamper or a piece of lumber. This will create a firm and stable foundation.

Practical application: The sand base is key to preventing uneven settling over time. Take your time to ensure it's well compacted.

Position the Bricks

Start laying the bricks along the trench, following the marked line. Gently tap each brick into place with a rubber mallet. Use a level to ensure that the bricks are even with each other and with the surrounding ground. Add or remove sand as needed to achieve a consistent height.

Important: A common installation method is the soldier course, where the bricks are set vertically, side by side. This creates a clean, defined edge. Another option is the sailor course, where the bricks are laid horizontally. The choice depends on your aesthetic preference and the desired stability.

For curved edges, you may need to cut some of the bricks to create a smooth, flowing line. Use a masonry saw or a chisel and hammer to cut the bricks to the desired shape. Always wear safety glasses when cutting bricks.

Fill Gaps and Secure the Edging

Once all the bricks are in place, fill any gaps between them with sand. This helps to stabilize the edging and prevents weeds from growing. Sweep the sand into the gaps using a broom or brush. Water the sand to help it settle into the cracks.

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For added stability, consider using landscape adhesive to glue the bricks together. This is especially useful for curved edges or areas with heavy foot traffic. Apply a small bead of adhesive to the sides of the bricks before placing them in the trench.

Tip: Using polymeric sand is another option. This type of sand hardens when wet, creating a more durable and weed-resistant surface.

Backfill and Finish

Fold the excess landscape fabric over the sand and brick on the garden side. Backfill the trench with soil, tamping it down firmly to secure the edging. Add mulch or other landscaping materials to complete the look. Clean up any debris and enjoy your newly edged landscape.

Daily Life Application

Installing brick edging isn't just about aesthetics. It's about improving the functionality and maintainability of your outdoor spaces. Well-defined garden beds are easier to weed and mulch. Edged walkways and driveways are safer and more visually appealing. This project teaches you valuable skills in landscaping, construction, and problem-solving – skills you can apply to other home improvement projects.

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Consider the longevity of your project. Proper preparation and installation will ensure that your brick edging lasts for years to come. Regular maintenance, such as weeding and replacing damaged bricks, will help to keep it looking its best.

You can also use this knowledge professionally. If you're interested in landscaping or gardening, knowing how to install brick edging can be a valuable asset. It's a service that many homeowners are willing to pay for.

Remember: Always check local building codes and regulations before starting any landscaping project. Some areas may have restrictions on the height or type of edging allowed.