How to repair loose bricks in a path

Introduction

Noticing bricks shifting or wobbling underfoot on your garden or driveway path? Loose bricks are more than just unsightly—they can cause trips, uneven surfaces, and long-term damage if left unchecked. In this guide, you’ll learn how to repair loose bricks in a path step by step, along with pro tips to ensure a safe, durable, and attractive walkway.

Why Repairing Loose Bricks Matters

Paths take constant wear from foot traffic, weather, and shifting soil. Even a single loose brick can compromise the strength and appearance of the entire walkway. Fixing them quickly saves you from more extensive repairs later.

Benefits of repairing loose bricks include:

Safety – Prevents tripping hazards.
Durability – Stops further shifting and spreading.
Appearance – Restores a neat, well-kept look.
Cost savings – Quick repairs avoid expensive full-path rebuilds.
Drainage control – Keeps bricks aligned to prevent water pooling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Loose Bricks

Step 1: Inspect the Path

Identify which bricks are loose and check surrounding areas for movement.
Look for signs of erosion, weeds, or sinking that may need attention.
Determine if the issue is isolated or widespread.

Step 2: Remove the Loose Brick(s)

Use a flathead screwdriver, chisel, or putty knife to gently lift the brick.
If it’s stuck, tap lightly with a rubber mallet to loosen it.
Take care not to damage adjacent bricks during removal.

Step 3: Clean the Brick and Bed

Brush dirt, sand, or old mortar off the brick.
Clean the base area thoroughly, removing weeds or roots.
If the brick is chipped or cracked, replace it with a new one of similar size.

Step 4: Level the Base

For sand-set paths: add fresh sand and level it with a trowel.
For mortar-set paths: scrape away old mortar and prepare a fresh mortar mix.
Check with a spirit level to ensure the base is even.

Step 5: Reset the Brick

Place the brick back into position.
For sand base: tap it gently with a rubber mallet until it sits flush with surrounding bricks.
For mortar base: spread a thin layer of mortar beneath, press the brick in, and smooth excess.

Step 6: Refill Joints

Sweep jointing sand or polymeric sand into the gaps for sand-set paths.
For mortar joints, fill gaps with fresh mortar using a pointing trowel.
Compact sand or smooth mortar for a neat, sealed finish.

Step 7: Compact and Secure

Use a tamper or mallet to ensure the brick is firmly set.
For wider paths, running a plate compactor over the surface helps lock everything in place.
Lightly water polymeric sand to activate bonding.

Step 8: Allow to Set

For mortar repairs, let the brick cure for 24–48 hours before use.
For sand repairs, the path can usually be walked on immediately after compaction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake: Skipping base repairs.
- Solution: Always level and strengthen the base before resetting bricks.
Mistake: Mixing old and new brick heights.
- Solution: Ensure replacements match in thickness to avoid uneven surfaces.
Mistake: Using the wrong joint filler.
- Solution: Use polymeric sand for flexible joints or mortar for rigid paths.
Mistake: Not addressing drainage issues.
- Solution: If water is causing sinking, improve grading or add a gravel layer.
Mistake: Forgetting to compact.
- Solution: Tap or compact bricks to prevent them from loosening again.

Extra Path Repair Tips & Hacks

Use polymeric sand instead of regular sand to deter weeds and ants.
Seal mortar joints every few years to prevent moisture damage.
Keep spares handy—store extra bricks during initial installation so replacements always match.
Want to take path care further? Check out our guide on [how to repair uneven pathway sections].

Conclusion

Repairing loose bricks in a path is a simple but important job. By lifting, cleaning, leveling, and resetting the bricks properly, you’ll restore safety and extend the life of your walkway.

Pro Tip: Fix loose bricks as soon as you notice them—small repairs now prevent bigger, more expensive problems later.