How to Lay Brick Streets

Brick streets are classic and charming.

Brick streets often are seen in quaint downtown areas lined with tiny shops and old-fashioned homes. While they have a compelling, old-world charm, brick streets are not as easy to lay as they might look. They require careful engineering to ensure they are level and can withstand weight. In addition, they can be an involved task simply due to the fact that streets typically are much longer and wider than a standard walkway. In most cases, laying a brick street is a professional job, contracted out to a professional bricklayer.

Things You'll Need

• Stakes
• String
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Mason's sand
• Construction sand
• Gravel
• Tamper
• Trowel
• Broom
• Hose

Send to Phone

Brought to you by

Send to Phone

Please enter your 10 digit phone number only.

Send

A link to this article has been sent to the phone number provided.

Close

Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. Message and data rates may apply.

Instructions

1. Clear the area. Depending on what already is in the area where the brick street will be, this can be a big or small job. If the street is paved, for example, you need to rip up the pavement and possibly fill the area with soil.

2. Measure out the perimeter of the brick street. Use the string and stakes to create a straight line perimeter, using the level to ensure your lines are straight.

3. Fill the area where the brick street will be with construction sand. This forms the foundation or base of the brick street.

4. Lay the bricks, working one small section at a time. While the brick street will not be perfectly level, you should work slowly to ensure the street, from one side to the other, is as smooth and level as possible. Use a trowel or rubber mallet to adjust the position of the bricks so they are even. The bricks should be about a quarter inch to a half inch apart.

5. Spread the masonry sand across the brick street, filling the cracks. Sweep with a stiff broom to make sure all the cracks are filled evenly with sand.

6. Spray the surface with water, using the hose and a light spray. Don't use such a forceful spray that it dislocates the sand; the sand should be packed down into the cracks. Allow it to dry.