If youve been considering ways to improve your outdoor living space, you may have considered laying a new concrete patio over your existing brick patio.
But is this a good idea? How can you make sure the concrete is properly laid and sealed? And what are some alternatives to consider? In this article, well explore the considerations you need to keep in mind when considering a concrete patio over brick, from the benefits of doing so to the preparation and maintenance needed.
Read on to learn more about whether this project is right for you.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Yes, you can put concrete over a brick patio.
However, it is important to make sure that the brick patio is in good condition before pouring the concrete.
You should check for cracks or damaged bricks and repair any issues before laying the concrete.
Additionally, you should make sure the brick patio is clean and level before pouring the concrete.
What Is Concrete?
Concrete is a composite material made up of a combination of cement, water, and aggregate such as sand, gravel, or crushed stone.
When these ingredients are combined and mixed together, they form a paste that can be molded and shaped into any desired shape or form.
This paste is then poured into a formwork or mold and allowed to harden into a rigid form.
Concrete is strong, durable, and versatile, making it an ideal material for a variety of applications, including patios, driveways, and walkways.
It can be colored to match the surrounding environment and can be sealed or polished for a smooth, attractive finish.
In addition, concrete can be laid over an existing surface such as brick, making it possible to upgrade the look of a patio without having to remove the existing brickwork.
Benefits of Laying Concrete Over Brick
Laying concrete over an existing brick patio can be a great way to give your outdoor space a fresh and modern look.
Additionally, it can help protect the original brickwork from damage caused by inclement weather, heavy foot traffic, and other factors.
Concrete is also much easier to clean and maintain than brick, which can be difficult to keep free from dirt, mildew, and other buildup.
Concrete is also a great choice for patios that are used for entertaining, as it is easy to customize with colors, textures, and shapes.
For example, you can add patterns or designs to your concrete patio to give it a unique look that will stand out from the rest of your backyard.
Additionally, concrete is a very durable material, so its unlikely to crack or break down over time, even with heavy foot traffic.
Finally, putting concrete over an existing brick patio is a much easier and more cost-effective option than removing the brick and starting from scratch.
This is especially true if the brick patio has been installed for some time, as it can be difficult to remove and replace without damaging the surrounding area.
Preparing the Existing Brick Patio
When laying concrete over an existing brick patio, the most important step is to ensure that the brick surface is level.
This can be done by using a level or a straight edge to check for any dips or unevenness across the surface.
Additionally, any cracks or gaps should be filled in with mortar or a similar material to prevent water from seeping through.
It is also important to ensure that the brick is clean and free of dirt and debris.
Once the surface is level and all cracks and gaps are filled, it is recommended that a layer of asphalt paper be laid down between the concrete and the brick.
This will help protect the brick from water damage and will also provide an additional barrier between the two materials.
The asphalt paper should be laid in the same direction as the concrete will be poured, and then the concrete should be poured over the top.
Finally, once the concrete has been poured and has had time to set, it is important to seal the concrete to protect it from the elements.
This will not only help protect the concrete from water damage and staining, but it will also help extend the life of the patio.
Sealing the concrete is a simple process that can be done with a brush or roller and a sealer of your choice.
Laying the Concrete
When it comes to laying concrete over an existing brick patio, there are a few important steps that need to be taken in order to ensure a successful result.
First, the existing brick surface needs to be leveled and any cracks or gaps should be filled.
This will help to ensure a level surface for the concrete to be laid on.
Additionally, it is important to place a layer of asphalt paper between the concrete and the brick.
This will help to prevent water from seeping through and damaging the brickwork underneath.
Once the concrete is laid, it is recommended that it be sealed.
This will help to protect the concrete from the elements and will also help to make it look better.
Sealing the concrete will also help to ensure that it lasts longer and looks great for years to come.
Additionally, it is important to use the right type of sealer for your specific type of concrete.
Different types of concrete require different sealers, so it is important to research this before beginning the project.
Sealing the Concrete
Once the concrete is laid over the brick patio, it is important to seal it to protect it from the elements.
Sealing the concrete can help to protect it from damage caused by water, UV light, and other environmental factors.
This can help to extend the life of the concrete and keep it looking great for years to come.
When sealing concrete, it is important to use a sealant that is designed specifically for concrete surfaces.
This type of sealant is usually a clear liquid that is applied with a roller or brush.
For best results, the sealant should be applied in two layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next one.
It is also important to make sure that the concrete is clean and free of debris before applying the sealant, as this can prevent the sealant from adhering properly.
Once the sealant has been applied, it is important to let it dry completely before walking on the surface or exposing it to water.
This will allow the sealant to properly cure and form a protective layer over the concrete.
Additionally, it is important to reapply the sealant on a regular basis to ensure that the protective layer remains intact.
By taking the time to properly seal your concrete over brick patio, you can ensure that it will remain looking great and that the original brickwork will be protected from damage.
Additionally, sealing the concrete can help to extend its life and keep it looking great for years to come.
Maintenance and Care for a Concrete Over Brick Patio
Once the concrete has been laid over the existing brick patio, there are some important steps to take to ensure that it remains in good condition.
To begin with, a sealant should be applied to the concrete surface to protect it from the elements and to help prevent staining.
This should be done every few years, depending on the climate and the wear that the patio gets from use.
Additionally, the surface should be regularly inspected and any cracks or chips should be repaired or patched to prevent further damage.
Weeds should also be kept at bay, and its a good idea to use a weed killer that is specifically designed for use on concrete surfaces.
Lastly, the concrete should be regularly cleaned with a mild detergent and a pressure washer to keep it looking its best.
With proper care and maintenance, a concrete over brick patio can last for many years and provide a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor living space.
Alternatives to Laying Concrete Over Brick
If you’re looking for alternatives to laying concrete over an existing brick patio, there are a few options to consider.
One of the most popular is to simply clean and reseal the brick surface.
This option is ideal for patios that only have minor cosmetic damage or staining.
It will help to protect the brick from further damage and can even help to improve the appearance of a patio.
Another option is to use a brick paver system, which is a great way to give a patio a whole new look without having to lay down a thick layer of concrete.
This option is easy to install and can be customized to fit any size patio.
Finally, you can also choose to install artificial turf, which is a great way to give your patio a lush, green look without having to worry about maintenance or upkeep.
Final Thoughts
Laying concrete over an existing brick patio is a great way to give it a fresh look and to protect the brickwork from damage.
It is important to ensure the brick surface is level and any cracks or gaps are filled before laying the concrete.
Additionally, asphalt paper should be placed between the concrete and the brick to prevent water seepage.
Once the concrete has been laid, it should be sealed to protect it from the elements.
Overall, with the right preparation and maintenance, a concrete over brick patio can be a great addition to any outdoor space.
Now that you know the steps to laying concrete over an existing brick patio, why not give it a try?