One of the great benefits of brick pavers is the relative ease in which you can replace cracked, chipped, or stained bricks. While concrete brick pavers are very strong and should last a lifetime if sealed correctly, accidents do happen. An unsightly oil stain on your new driveway or a chip caused by a dropped item can drive you crazy if not repaired.

When a paver does need to be replaced here is a step by step guide for replacing the damaged brick.

If you are replacing several bricks be sure to mark the bricks first to ensure that you are replacing the correct size brick in the correct spot. This is especially important if you used a complicated pattern in your paver layout. If you are replacing loose bricks it is good to get the correct bricks back into the original slot.

Once the pavers are removed be sure to clean any debris from the cavity. A thoroughly cleaned area will ensure that the bricks fit back properly while leaving the proper gap between the existing brick pavers.

Put a layer of sand down next. Use a wooden masonry wood float, taking the time to push sand into all the corners. Use the float or your foot to compact the sand down thoroughly. Check the level of the sand with a level.

It is now time to place the new brick paver into position. Use the marks you made to match up the correct position. Use a screwdriver to make sure the gap is even on all sides.

Finally, pour sand on top of the new bricks, filling all the gaps evenly. A mallet can be used to tap the new brick pavers into place.

If all is done well your new bricks should fit in seamlessly with your existing layout.

To learn more about brick pavers and see some samples of beautifully designed and installed systems check out http://www.outbackcontractors.com.