Concrete and asphalt may have become the norm for homeowners who want to level up from a gravel driveway, but we all know a home with really great brick hardscaping, and it's hard to argue against the character that brick delivers.
Clay brick pavers are more than just charming, of course. There's a reason they've been around for centuries. They're strong, classic, and offer real advantages over poured or stamped concrete.
If you're thinking about the paving system for your next big project, brick may offer more than you expect.
A Look That Never Feels Dated
"Clay brick pavers exude an organic charm that concrete often struggles to match, with their rich tones, subtle color variations, and natural textures bringing depth and dimension to any outdoor space," shared Denise Smith, senior marketing manager at Glen-Gery. "[They] pair seamlessly with a variety of home styles, from traditional legacy architecture to modern designs. Whether framing a courtyard or defining a driveway, clay brick pavers create a cohesive, visually appealing aesthetic that feels timeless."
Brickwork can give your outdoor space a warm, natural tone. Unlike concrete, which all too often feels flat or industrial, brick offers texture and depth. Furthermore, the aspect ratio of brick is hard to match. It simply marries better , whether used in an outdoor kitchen or as a border paver on a sidewalk.
It also weathers more gracefully than concrete. For homeowners who care about curb appeal and long-term style, clay pavers are a way to get that classic look without it feeling tired or outdated.
Bricks Keep Their Color
"One of the standout benefits of clay brick pavers is their exceptional color retention," highlighted Smith. Unlike concrete, which may fade or discolor over time due to exposure to sunlight and other environmental elements, color-through clay brick pavers maintain their rich hues and vibrancy for decades with minimal maintenance."
Concrete driveway pavers often start out bold and clean but fade to pale gray or uneven tones. Brick holds its color better, even in full sun. That means your brick for driveway surfaces, patios, or walkways won’t need staining or sealing just to keep their look. This can cut down on maintenance and long-term repair costs.
Built to Handle Real Life
There's a reason brick lasts so long. "Clay brick pavers are remarkably durable, able to withstand everything from heavy foot traffic to a wide range of adverse weather conditions," noted Smith. "While concrete may crack over time, clay brick pavers maintain their structure without wearing, crumbling or degrading, making them a reliable choice for high-traffic areas like driveways, walkways and patios."
A lot happens on a driveway—cars, garbage cans, weather, and people all create wear. Concrete can crack with temperature changes or shift with soil movement. Brick driveways resist this kind of damage better. Each paver moves slightly on its own within its tamped sand layer, so the surface stays together longer. That means fewer repairs over time, even in areas with regular foot traffic or changing seasons.
Helps with Drainage
Homeowners should always be considering how landscaping and materials factor into their home's ability to ward off rainwater. Thanks to the construct of brick and its underlying sand bed, it's no surprise that these pavers would outperform concrete.
"Clay brick pavers offer superior permeability and allow water to seep through their surface and into the ground below," explained Smith. "This natural drainage not only helps prevent standing water, erosion and waterlogging in areas with heavy rain, but also supports the health of surrounding vegetation."
Permeable driveway pavers are becoming more popular for a reason... they help in a big way when it comes to stormwater management. Brick pavers let water filter down instead of running off into the street or your yard. This helps avoid puddles and protects nearby plants and foundations. If your city or region deals with heavy rain, using permeable pavers for your driveway or patio is worth considering.
Better for the Planet
"Clay brick pavers are made from abundant, renewable natural materials and create little waste during the manufacturing process," noted Smith. "Their extreme durability and long lifespan mean that they do not need to be replaced as frequently as many alternative materials. Even after removal, clay brick pavers can often be salvaged to be reused or repurposed in other projects, making them an eco-friendly option for homeowners looking to minimize their environmental footprint."
Concrete often uses petroleum products or chemicals during production, while clay brick comes from natural materials and is fired using heat. Brick also has a longer lifespan, which reduces landfill waste. It’s even possible to reuse old pavers on a new project. For homeowners looking to use natural materials or cut down on environmental impact, clay offers more options.
Brick Brings Long-Term Value
"Beyond their practical benefits and eye-catching aesthetics, clay brick pavers offer timeless style that transcends trends and fads, retaining their original beauty for generations," reminds Smith. "With clay brick pavers, you’re not just investing in curb appeal—you’re adding lasting value to your home. From aesthetics and performance to long-term return, clay brick pavers are a smart, beautiful addition to any outdoor project."
A driveway made of paving stones like clay brick adds character. It also adds resale value. While concrete often has to be redone after a few decades, brick driveways can last for generations.
FAQ
Are there regional considerations when choosing brick pavers over concrete?
Yes, especially in places like Southern California or other areas prone to drought or water restrictions. Clay brick pavers support better stormwater retention without requiring sealed surfaces that push water into storm drains. In wetter climates, they also stand up well to freeze-thaw cycles, which can crack concrete.
Local soil types and building codes may influence the base layers or materials you’ll need, but brick pavers generally adapt well. Working with an authorized contractor familiar with your region helps you make the most of your specific landscape conditions.
Do brick pavers work for pool decks or outdoor kitchens?
They do—and they look great doing it. Brick’s natural textures make it slip-resistant when wet, which is a smart choice around pool decks.
For outdoor kitchens, clay pavers handle high heat without degrading and blend well with stone, metal, or wood. You can also combine linear plank pavers or border pavers for a more tailored layout.
Whether you're adding a grill station or lounge area, brick keeps things cohesive while holding up to weather, foot traffic, and design trends that come and go.
What patterns can you use with brick pavers?
Clay brick pavers offer a lot of layout options. Running bond is one of the most popular because it’s easy to install and adds a clean, linear look. Other choices include herringbone, basket weave, and mosaic layouts like circular patterns for homeowners who want something more decorative.
How do brick pavers compare to interlocking paving stones?
Both are good choices; however, clay brick pavers offer better color retention and are made from natural materials, while interlocking paver systems (usually concrete) tend to be easier to install and cheaper upfront. Ground shifting is expected over time for both. For people prioritizing sustainability and long-term performance, brick usually edges ahead.
