How To: Paving a Walkway With Brick Veneer

Figure A

1. Power wash the walkway to remove dirt and provide a clean surface for the thin-set to adhere to. Be careful with the pressure washer, making sure not to place your fingers near the spray tip.

Figure C

2. Measure the width of the walkway and determine the center. Make several marks down the center of the walkway and snap a chalk line between them. This line will be the start of your section. Use a straight edge at several intervals to draw a perpendicular line across the walkway, creating separate sections. Also draw a 45-degree line at the beginning of the walkway to orient your herringbone design. Other designs are available to you.

Figure D

3. Before using any adhesive, lay out the pattern, which is in this case herringbone. Fit the pattern snugly against the steps. This ensures a proper fit when you begin to lay adhesive. You will, of course, need to make cuts to the brick veneer to properly fit a straight line, such as against the steps. Use a wet saw to make your cuts.

Figure E

4. With a notched trowel, spread thin-set adhesive across a small section evenly. Place a 1/2-inch spacer against the steps and lay the first brick along the edge. Place the brick with a twisting motion, working one brick at a time. Use 1/2-inch spacers as you go to ensure proper spacing.

Figure F

5. Continue placing bricks a small section at a time. You can vary the pattern by placing a straight line of bricks at the end of each section, creating a border. Continue until all brick veneer is placed.

Figure G

6. You'll need to seal the bricks next before placing grout. Sweep the bricks free of debris, then roll the sealer onto the bricks with a nap roller as you would paint. The milky finish will disappear as the bricks dry. Allow to dry completely according to the manufacturer's directions.

Figure H

7. To apply grout, glob some onto the brick veneer and spread with a rubber grout float. Press well into crevices until completely filled. After about five minutes, the grout will begin to firm up. Begin using the float to scrape off excess grout. Allow grout to dry slightly, then wipe off bricks with a damp sponge. Be careful not to use the sponge to pull grout out of the crevices. Once the grout is dry, this project is done.

8. This finished project costs around $600 and takes two to three days to complete.