Details to assist you in replacing bricks in Walkways and Patios

  1. Remove the bricks you're replacing or reinstalling with an old flathead screwdriver. Spray water on the exposed sand base.
  2. Tamp down the sand with a metal or wooden tamping tool; for a small area such as one or two bricks, you can use the end of a 2-by-4 scrap.
  3. If necessary, add a layer of fine sand (available at home supply stores) so that it rises just barely above the bottom of the bricks that are still in place. Gently use the 2-by-4 scrap to smooth the new sand until it is level.
  4. Place the bricks on the sand one at a time. If a brick is too high, remove some sand from below; if it's too low, add a small amount of sand. Frequently check to make sure the bricks are level.
  5. When all the bricks are in, scatter a 1/2-inch (12-mm) layer of fine sand over the area. Sweep it back and forth until the cracks between the bricks are filled with sand.
  6. With a gentle spray, wash off the remaining sand from the bricks.