How to Dry Mortar a Sidewalk

One of the most important steps in installing a sidewalk of brick or pavers is filling in the spaces between them so that they don't move. While many installers pack sand in between the stones, using a dry mortar mix provides even more durability. A dry mortar mix consists of sand, cement and sometimes other materials. You install it just like traditional sand. However, once you dampen the material, the cement activates and dries to a rock-hard consistency.

Needle-nose pliers
Wheel barrow
Sharp sand
Powdered cement
Shovel
Push broom
Trowel
Garden hose with sprayer attachment

Instructions

- 1
  Look at the spaces between the pavers or bricks and locate the plastic spacers that provide uniform spacing. Pull each space4 out using your fingers or needle-nose pliers, if needed. Use care not to move any of the sidewalk as you remove the spacers.
- 2
  Fill a wheelbarrow with the dry mortar mix, which consists of three parts of coarse builder's sand and one part of powdered cement. Mix the two ingredients together well using a shovel.
- 3
  Scoop up a shovelful of the dry mortar mix and spread it over the surface of the sidewalk. Once an area fills completely, move to another area of the sidewalk. Complete one section of the sidewalk at at time, approximately a 5- to 6-foot square.
- 4
  Push down firmly on each mortar line in the sidewalk using the tip of a trowel or another thin-bladed tool. Repeat over the entire sidewalk surface. Examine the lines and identify any areas that sunk below the top of the sidewalk. Add more dry mortar mix and press down again with the trowel to pack the remaining mortar.
- 5
  Attach a spray nozzle to a garden hose and set it to a light spray. Water the entire surface of the sidewalk using a gentle spray to dampen and activate the mortar.

How to Make a Concrete Pathway

How to Lay a Path on Grass

Landscaping Walks & Pathways