Laying a Brick Walkway or Patio

The durability and aesthetic characteristics of brick patios and walkways make for the foundation of great spaces around your home. While installing brick walks and patios is not a difficult task, it may be rather time consuming depending on the size of the patio or walkway. When laying brick that will be walked on it is necessary to use paving quality bricks. These bricks are generally fired longer and at a higher temperature making them more suitable for a variety of weather conditions and more durable to wear and tear.

Basic Brick Construction

The best way to learn the art of bricklaying is through hands-on experience, and there's no better place to start than with a basic freestanding brick wall. The wall described here is built in the common or American bond pattern, a pattern that is very and easy to lay.

Brick Steps

As an alternate to plain concrete steps, bricks can be used as facing over the concrete. Building brick steps involves the same tools and materials as concrete steps, with the following additions: QUIKRETE® Mortar Mix or Mason Mix, bricks ½" wooden spacer, concave jointer, wooden mallet, mason's line, burlap sack, and stiff broom or brush.
 

Brick & Stone Veneer

Veneer masonry is a popular choice for home building and remodeling, because it gives the appearance of a solid brick or stone wall while providing better economy and insulation. It can be used as an addition to conventional wood frame structures, and can be placed on concrete block walls. Depending on personal preference, it may cover an entire wall from foundation to roof, or it can stop at windowsill level.

How to Lay a Brick Path
Brick paths are at home in nearly any garden or yard. Make yours broad and arrow-straight, and the formality is worthy of Mount Vernon. Make it narrow and winding, and you'll evoke the charm of an English cottage. The effect you create is up to you. In this project, we'll show you how to lay a basic 8-foot-by-3-foot section of brick-in-sand path.