So, you’ve got a pile of old bricks collecting dust in the corner of your yard, and you’re thinking, “Hey, let’s turn these relics into something epic!” We’ve all been there. Maybe you’ve even tried the whole “dry-lay” method before, only to watch your bricks migrate sideways after the first rain. (Don’t worry—we won’t judge.) But here’s the good news: laying old brick edging with mortar isn’t as daunting as it looks, especially when you’ve got a few pro tips up your sleeve.
At The Brick Pit here in Australia, we’ve resurrected more wonky garden edges than we can count. Trust us: nothing beats the timeless charm of mortared brick borders. They’re sturdy, they’re stylish, and they’ll outlast your neighbor’s flimsy plastic edging by… well, forever. Let’s roll up our sleeves and turn those forgotten bricks into the envy of the suburb.
Gathering Your Tools & Materials (No, You Can’t Just Wing It)
Before we start playing in the dirt, let’s talk supplies. Skipping this step is like trying to bake a cake without flour—it will end in tears. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tools:
- A sturdy shovel (preferably one that hasn’t been chewed by your dog)
- Rubber mallet (for gentle persuasion)
- Masonry trowel (the MVP of this project)
- Level (unless you’re into abstract, sloping landscapes)
- Stiff-bristle brush (for cleanup)
- Wheelbarrow or mixing tub (for mortar)
Materials:
- Old bricks (clean and free of major cracks—check your stash!)
- Type N mortar mix (our go-to for outdoor projects)
- Sand (for leveling the base)
- Water (obviously)
- Optional: Plastic sheeting (if rain’s on the horizon)
Pro Tip: If your brick collection is looking a little sparse, swing by The Brick Pit. We’ve got weathered bricks with just the right amount of rustic charm—plus mortar mixes that won’t leave you cursing halfway through the job.
Prepping the Area: Digging In Without Digging a Grave for Your Project
Let’s get real: a solid foundation is 90% of the battle. Skip this, and your bricks will sag faster than a soufflé in a thunderstorm.
- Mark Your Territory
Use a garden hose or spray paint to outline where your edging will go. Curves? No problem—just keep the bends gentle unless you enjoy cutting bricks with a chisel (spoiler: you don’t). - Dig a Trench
Aim for a depth of 6–8 inches. This gives room for a 4-inch gravel/sand base and 2 inches of brick. If your soil’s softer than butter, go deeper. - Level the Base
Add a 4-inch layer of gravel for drainage, followed by 2 inches of sand. Tamp it down, then spray it lightly with water to compact. Check for levelness—this isn’t the time for guesswork.
Mixing Mortar: Where Art Meets Science (Mostly Science)
Mortar mixing is like making pancake batter: too runny, and it’s a mess; too thick, and you’ll regret your life choices. Here’s how we nail it every time at The Brick Pit:
- Combine mortar mix and water in your wheelbarrow. Follow the bag’s ratio, but start slow—you can always add more water.
- Mix until it’s the consistency of peanut butter. If it slides off your trowel in globs, you’re golden. If it pours like soup… well, time to add more mix.
- Work in small batches. Mortar dries faster than your patience on hold with customer service.
FYI: Type N mortar is our top pick for edging. It’s durable but flexible enough to handle Australia’s moody weather.
Laying Bricks: Channel Your Inner Zen Master
This is where the magic happens. But remember: precision beats speed. Channel your inner monk and take it one brick at a time.
- Butter the Bottom
Use your trowel to spread a 1-inch layer of mortar on the trench base. - Set the First Brick
Press it firmly into the mortar, then tap it with the rubber mallet to seat it. Check for level—front to back and side to side. - Butter the Sides
Apply mortar to the end of the next brick before snugging it against the first. This creates a strong bond. - Repeat, Check, Repeat
Keep laying bricks, checking every 3–4 for level and alignment. If one’s off, fix it now—not after the mortar sets.
Watch Out For:
- Mortar oozing between bricks? Scrape it off with the trowel edge.
- Gaps wider than 1/4 inch? Cut a brick to fit (or hide it under a plant later).
Curing & Cleanup: The Waiting Game
Mortar takes 24–48 hours to set, but full strength takes about a week. Resist the urge to poke it! Here’s how to survive the wait:
- Cover with plastic if rain threatens.
- Mist lightly in hot weather to prevent cracking.
- Brush off excess mortar once it’s dry but not rock-hard (think “crumbly cookie” texture).
Maintenance: Keep It Classy, Not Crumbly
Even the best-laid bricks need love. Here’s how to keep your edging sharp:
- Inspect joints yearly and repoint any cracked mortar.
- Weed regularly—those little green jerks can pry bricks apart over time.
- Pressure wash gently to keep moss at bay.
FAQs: Because We Know You’ve Got Questions
Q: Can I reuse old bricks with existing mortar?
A: Absolutely! Chip off the old mortar with a chisel and wire brush. Just avoid bricks that are crumbling—they’ve earned retirement.
Q: How long before I can walk on the edging?
A: Give it 48 hours for light use. For heavy foot traffic, wait a full week.
Q: Can I add color to the mortar?
A: Yep! Use mortar dye for a custom look. Swing by The Brick Pit—we’ve got shades to match any aesthetic.
Wrapping Up: Your Garden’s About to Level Up
And there you have it: a mortared brick edge that’ll make your garden look like it’s managed by a professional (because, well, it kinda is now). Sure, it takes a little elbow grease, but the payoff is a border that’s equal parts tough and timeless.
Hit a snag? Need more bricks? That’s what we’re here for. At The Brick Pit, we’re obsessed with helping Aussies turn their backyard dreams into reality—without the headache. Drop by our yard or give us a buzz, and we’ll hook you up with everything from vintage bricks to mortar mixing pro tips.
Now go forth and build something that’ll outlive your Wi-Fi router. Happy laying!
