How to replace broken pavers in a walkway

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Introduction

Cracked or broken pavers in your walkway can ruin its look and create tripping hazards. Over time, heavy foot traffic, weather changes, and settling soil can cause damage to individual pavers. The good news is that unlike concrete or asphalt, paver walkways are easy to repair—just remove and replace the damaged sections. Learning how to replace broken pavers in a walkway will restore safety and beauty without redoing the entire path.

Why Replacing Broken Pavers Matters

Fixing damaged pavers is more than just cosmetic. Here’s why it’s important:

  • Safety – Broken or uneven pavers are a tripping hazard.
  • Curb appeal – A walkway with damaged sections looks poorly maintained.
  • Cost-effective – Replacing a few pavers is cheaper than resurfacing the whole walkway.
  • Durability – Keeping pavers in good condition prevents further shifting and spreading cracks.
  • Ease of repair – Unlike concrete, individual pavers can be swapped without professional help.

By tackling repairs early, you’ll extend the life of your walkway while keeping it safe and attractive.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Broken Pavers

1. Identify the Damaged Pavers

Walk along your walkway and check for cracks, chips, or uneven pavers.

  • Mark broken or loose pavers with chalk or tape.
  • Check surrounding pavers too, since shifting bases can affect multiple pieces.

2. Gather Your Tools and Materials

You’ll need a few basic items:

  • Flathead screwdriver or pry bar
  • Rubber mallet
  • Stiff-bristle broom
  • Level
  • Replacement pavers (matching size and color)
  • Polymeric or jointing sand
  • Base material (gravel or stone dust if needed)

3. Remove the Broken Paver

Carefully extract the damaged piece without disturbing the walkway.

  • Insert a screwdriver or pry bar into the joint.
  • Wiggle gently and lift the paver upward.
  • If the paver is shattered, remove the pieces one at a time.

Tip: Avoid using too much force to prevent chipping nearby pavers.

4. Clean the Area

A clean, level base ensures the new paver sits properly.

  • Sweep away debris, weeds, or old joint sand.
  • Check for roots or soil settling that may have caused damage.
  • Dig slightly deeper if necessary to remove weak material.

5. Inspect and Repair the Base

Often, broken pavers result from poor support beneath them.

  • Refill the area with gravel or stone dust.
  • Compact it firmly using a tamper or mallet.
  • Check with a level to ensure the base is flat and even with surrounding pavers.

6. Place the New Paver

Now, install the replacement piece.

  • Set the new paver carefully into the opening.
  • Make sure it matches the surrounding pattern.
  • Tap gently with a rubber mallet until flush with neighboring pavers.

7. Refill the Joints

Secure the paver by filling in the gaps.

  • Sweep polymeric or jointing sand into the joints around the new paver.
  • Mist lightly with water to activate the binding agents.
  • Repeat if needed to fully lock the paver in place.

8. Check for Stability

Test the repair before finishing up.

  • Step on the paver to ensure it doesn’t wobble.
  • Add more base material or sand if needed.
  • Sweep off excess sand from the walkway surface.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mistake 1: Not Matching Pavers
    Solution: Always use the same size and style of paver to maintain consistency.
  • Mistake 2: Ignoring the Base
    Solution: Replace or compact the base layer so the problem doesn’t return.
  • Mistake 3: Using Regular Sand Instead of Polymeric Sand
    Solution: Polymeric sand hardens and prevents weeds; regular sand washes away.
  • Mistake 4: Forcing the Paver Into Place
    Solution: Never hammer too hard—adjust the base to fit instead.
  • Mistake 5: Skipping Joint Filling
    Solution: Always fill joints to lock pavers in and prevent shifting.

Extra Walkway Tips & Hacks

  • Keep Spare Pavers: Always save extras from the original project for repairs.
  • Seal the Walkway: Apply sealant every 2–3 years to protect against stains and weather.
  • Routine Maintenance: Sweep weekly and rinse occasionally to keep weeds and moss away.

👉 Want related advice? Check out our guide on how to repair loose or broken driveway pavers.

Conclusion

Replacing broken pavers in a walkway is one of the easiest DIY repairs for homeowners. By removing the damaged piece, repairing the base, installing a new paver, and locking it in with sand, you’ll restore safety and style in less than an hour.

💡 Pro Tip: Repair broken pavers as soon as you notice them—quick fixes prevent costly large-scale replacements later.