How to Cover Existing Sidewalks With Paving Blocks or Bricks

Use a wire brush and hose to clean the existing sidewalk of embedded dirt and debris. Use concrete stain remover to remove grease and oil stains and rinse off the solution.

Patch any cracks in the surface with epoxy or vinyl concrete patching compound. Add the compound to the crevices with a putty knife and smooth the surface.

Set the paving blocks or bricks on a section of the sidewalk in different patterns or try creating your own design. You won't be able to change the pattern once the surface is set in mortar. Use this time to choose a pattern you'll be happy with for years.

Line the sides of the sidewalk with 2-by-4-inch boards and attach the boards end-to-end with nails and a hammer. Brace them by sinking stakes behind them every 4 feet. The wood boards will prevent the blocks or bricks from moving until the mortar sets. They will be removed later.

Mix mortar with premade mortar mix and water to make a thick, spreadable surface. You'll need enough mortar to cover the sidewalk with a 1/2-inch-thick layer. If the sidewalk is long, make small batches of mortar at a time so it doesn't harden before you use it.

Spread a 1/2-inch layer of mortar with a notched trowel over one end of the sidewalk in a section large enough for four blocks or bricks. Set the blocks or bricks in the mortar in your selected pattern, leaving as narrow a joint as possible between them. Once the section is set, put a wooden board across the surface and tap it lightly with a hammer to embed the material into the mortar with even pressure.

Continue to set the blocks or bricks four at a time until the sidewalk is complete.

Brush fine sand over the blocks or bricks with a stiff shop broom to fill the joints.