How to Lay a Brick Paver Walk

Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of the walkway, and outline the path with landscape paint. If you expect a high volume of foot traffic, consider making the walkway at least 5 feet wide to accommodate multiple people.

Walk along the outlined path to check that you're happy with the layout. Adjust the outline if it feels too narrow or winding.

Dig out the outlined site until it is 8 inches below the ground. If your ground freezes in winter, dig below the frost line to prevent frost heave damage. If the walkway passes near your house, slope the surface away from the home about 1/4 inch for every foot to prevent water from running toward the house.

Use a hand tamper or plate compactor machine to compress the surface until it is smooth and even. Place landscape fabric over the surface and secure it with spikes.

Pour a 4-inch layer of gravel over the landscape fabric and use a rake or 2-by-4 to even out the surface. Compact the gravel until the surface is flat and doesn't shift when you walk.

Spread a 1-inch layer of coarse sand over the gravel and moisten the sand to shore up the surface.

Secure metal or wood edging to the border of the walkway with stakes or metal inserts. The edging prevents weeds from encroaching and keeps the pavers in place as they settle.

Set your brick pavers, beginning at an outer corner of the walkway. Lay the pavers in a straight row or follow the pattern of your choice, spacing the bricks 1/8 inch apart on all sides.

Brush fine-grained sand over the walkway and work it between the pavers. Continue to add sand until all of the gaps are filled to cushion the bricks from normal wear and tear.