Get matched with top stone and gravel pros in Wauneta, NE

Discoloration ondifferent types of brick can range from harmless to red flag. For example, efflorescence that is caused by a buildup of water-soluble white salt is considered harmless. However, green or greenish-yellow stains are caused by salts that are harmful to brick. Staining can also be caused by rust, corrosion, lime run, soot, algae, or moss.

Rock salt and ice melts contain sodium chloride, aka salt, and are corrosive to metal and concrete. If used frequently over time, it can cause corrosion, discoloration, chipping, and cracking to patios, walkways, and driveways. You can try a rock salt alternative or hire a professional snow removal company instead. 

No, you shouldn’t lay bricks directly on dirt. While it might seem like a shortcut, it leads to a patio that shifts, sinks, and becomes a maintenance headache. Dirt expands, contracts, and erodes—none of which mix well with long-term stability. To build something that lasts, excavate the topsoil, compact a layer of crushed gravel, and add a coarse sand-setting bed. This layered base gives your bricks proper support, allows drainage, and helps block weeds from creeping through. Cutting corners here just means you’ll spend more time—and money—repairing your brick patio later.

This is largely dependent on the size and hardness of the rock, but a range of tools might work, including hammers, chisels, rock hammers, sledge hammers, and more. You'll need a jackhammer for the very biggest rock-breaking jobs.