When building a sidewalk for your property, there are several options for materials to use. The main two materials are concrete and brick. Each material has its pros and cons, and what you choose will likely be based on personal preference.
Some of the factors to consider when choosing include durability, cost, appearance, and sealability. So which is the better option, a brick or a concrete sidewalk?
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Durability
Both concrete and brick are very durable materials. They are both strong and hold up well to weather and foot traffic. One advantage brick has over concrete is that it can often shift a little without actually cracking. Extreme temperatures cause concrete to expand and contract, resulting in cracks that have to be repaired. Yet professional, penetrating sealants can protect concrete from cracking.
Brick is also much easier to repair and replace than concrete, especially if you only need to repair a few bricks. If concrete becomes damaged enough, it all has to be removed and repoured.
Cost
Concrete is the clear winner when it comes to price. Brick is more expensive overall, and the cost of laying a brick sidewalk is probably close to three times the price of a concrete sidewalk just because of the labor involved of laying one brick at a time. If cost is a major factor, concrete is definitely the cheapest option.
However, when it comes to repairs and replacement, brick has a longer lifespan, and is often cheaper to repair. With brick, you may just need to repair a small area, but it is more expensive to tear up existing concrete and replace the whole sidewalk.
Appearance
Both concrete and brick are aesthetically pleasing, and it really depends on the look you’re trying to create. Concrete is simplistic and clean, and looks great on any property. Brick has a classic, more rustic look, and is a great way to add class to an outdoor kitchen.
Brick retains its color longer. Though, over time, both brick and concrete can both become discolored.
Sealability
Both brick and concrete sidewalks can be sealed to help prevent damage, repel water, and maintain color and appearance.
If you opt for a one-time permanent sealant, you can make both a concrete and brick sidewalk last for a very long time.
Sealing your sidewalk with permanent penetrating compounds can:
- Prevent cracking
- Repel water
- Increase longevity
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Who can permanently seal my brick or concrete sidewalk?
Seal Smart’s permanent sealing comes with a 25-year warranty. Our team can seal your brick or concrete patios, walkways, and sidewalks to help them last.
Contact our team or call 1-877-288-3497, and we’ll be in touch. We can work on your property as long as it’s 40 degrees or warmer.
