In fact, brick is one of the sturdiest building materials you’ll find (provided it doesn’t crumble!), and is guaranteed to be weatherproof and last the long haul. Similar to reuse Wooden pallets in your yardreclaimed materials are gaining popularity for DIY projects around the home.
Brick in particular is incredibly versatile and can be put to good use in the yard. All it takes is a few tools, time, and a lot of creativity. What’s more, high-quality brick is known to be more expensive than wood – so you’ll save money in the long run!
So, if you want to make the most of your leftover bricks, check out these seven clever ways to reuse old bricks in your garden.
1. Garden path
Another clever use for leftover bricks is to create a small garden path or driveway edging. Likewise, this will provide a nice, flat surface to walk on – without damaging the grass.
To do this, you first need to measure the distance and determine how wide it will be and how many bricks you will need. The length depends on how far you want the path to go back. Then use chalk to mark the edges of the path before digging a trench about 4 to 5 inches deep. Fill this with basic gravel using the tamper to press down the entire surface.
Next, spread a 1-inch layer of sand along the entire path, before laying your bricks in a zigzag pattern. Press the bricks evenly into the sand, then fill the cracks between them with sand as well. Just make sure the bricks are completely installed and stable before walking over them. Not only is this a practical idea, it will also add a stunning feature to your garden.
2. Border edges
Whether you enjoy gardening, or prefer a landscaped front yard, you can reuse bricks to create borders. Brick edging is a quick way to elegantly divide your garden or give plants perimeter.
First, mix sand and cement (4:1) with water until it becomes a thick, cake-like consistency. Then spread a layer of cement over the edge of a small section of your garden before placing the bricks on the mortar. Make sure the ends meet and push them firmly into the mixture using one of the best gardening gloves.
As you go, gently tap the bricks into place with a rubber mallet. Make sure it looks even and follow the line of the grass as you work. Finally, pile the boundary soil into the bricks and leave them for two days until the bricks are strong. This also defines the boundary between the lawn and the patio, making it more presentable.
3. Raised flower beds
Likewise, you can create raised flower beds using leftover bricks. Whether it’s beautiful perennials, home-grown tomatoes or an aromatic herb garden, these flower beds are a great way to elevate and display them.
You can either build a raised brick garden bed with or without mortar. Sand mortar is usually suitable for residential use, but if you need a deeper raised layer, mortar can be used to hold the bricks together. Before you start laying bricks, always use a line level and stakes to stabilize your raised garden bed. For a short raised garden bed, stack the bricks 3-4 bricks high – adding or removing dirt under each brick to make sure each brick is level.
Once you have your raised beds created, lay a layer of hardware fabric underneath, then fill with raised bed soil or native topsoil before adding your favorite plants.
4. Small brick wall
Whether you want to secure your existing fences or create a decorative feature, bricks can be used to make miniature walls.
One way you can do this is to dig a trench the length and width of your planned brick wall. Fill the trench with concrete and allow it to set completely (usually for up to three days). Once dry, you can then begin laying the two rows of bricks that will form the brick foundation.
If you’re not sure, you may need to hire a professional builder to do it for you.
5. Create a weed barrier
Another great use for leftover bricks is to create a weed barrier. This will prevent the growth of unsightly weeds that take over your garden. Place a brick or two over any area where you are likely to see a lot of weeds.
In theory, this will ensure that the weeds and roots below will not get any of the essential nutrients (air and water) needed to aid their growth.
Keep in mind that depending on the type of weed, you may get some sprouts through the cracks between the bricks. However, it won’t be as bad as seeing an abundance of weeds in your garden.
