I want to build a brick patio. Can I use standard modular brick?

[Lex_Luthor]

I got around 1000 standard bricks for free, and would like to build a patio. They are the kind with 3 holes in the center. Can they be used for a patio? Or is that a big NO-NO, and should I try to trade them for paver's bricks?

[JDF]

As a guy building flagstone stairs today, I would say yes. Most important is the base. 8 inches of roadbase or recycled concrete is great because of the different size aggregate allows proper drainage and compaction. Only use sand or breeze/fines on the top swept in the cracks. Make sure you have a little fall/slope and you should be fine.

[SideShow Bob]

You could turn them so the holes are horizontal with the flat sides up, unless you like the holes up appearance.
And as previously stated, the sub grade base is very important as well as good compaction before setting in the bricks.

[Marlin]

The above.

(I got here late,, again..[Tooth])

[Lex_Luthor]

Ok, my thought was that I could turn them on their side and use a flat edge as the patio part underfoot. But would they support weight well? Would they crack/collapse during my lifetime? (Are there safety risks?) Or would it be just fine, and I'd just need to make sure I have enough to cover my desired area.

Need a good base, check. Need to start looking for some crushed rock, or roadbase. Then some sand. I'll probably end up leaving it for spring, and just let the bricks cover the area during this winter. Unless I find the materials pronto, and end up with some decent weather.

[Marlin]

I'd say, if you got packed with enough sand, then sealed it. You "should" be alright.

[Lex_Luthor]

But pack the sand in horizontally after laying the bricks so the holes aren't showing? Or lay em flat and pack the sand into the holes. I can cover more area if I lay them flat, but then there's the dilemma of if I even want the holes showing...

Just trying to examine my options.

[Marlin]

Laying flat with the holes "up" would expose the sand to the weather more. Thus, even if sealed You might have to redo the sand more often. Educated guess on my part.

[Wulf202]

if they fill with water and freeze they'll shatter. trade them for pavers.

[nynco]

What Wulf said. If you cut corners, it might cost you more in the long run in time and money to rip out your mistake.