| Atlanta Bungalow, Project 2: Traditional Brick Walkway |
| A herringbone-pattern brick walk adds charm to an Atlanta bungalow. |
From "Restoration Realities" episode DRTR-207 |
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(Continued from page )
Make sure the base is level. To do this, you'll need a level and a screed (figure J). A screed is any price of wood or other material you can use to level the loose paver base by running it over the base. Once the paver base is level, use the plat tamper to firmly tamp the base in place.Pat also wanted to install metal edging along the path. We simply inserted the edging along the sides of the path and secured it with stakes that were provided with the edging kit (figure K).
Apply sand to the path using the backside of a rake (figure L). Be sure to not use the tongs of the rake. That will only further disturb the sand and paver base. Using a screed and level, make sure the sand is uniform and then once again, tamp the sand down (figure M).
Start laying the bricks as a border around the edge of the path, tapping each one down firmly into the sand with a rubber mallet. Next, start angling bricks into the corner. One by one, lay the interior bricks at an angle (figures N and O), continuing this pattern for the rest of the path.
For spaces that are created in the pattern, you'll need to use a wet saw to cut bricks to fit (figure P). Wet saws can frequently be rented from home improvement or rental centers. Safety Alert: Whenever using a wet saw, or any power tools, be certain to use extreme caution and follow the appropriate safety precautions. (See the "web extra" information below.)
As you continue around the path, use the screed to make sure the sand remains nice and level before bricks are laid. When all the bricks have been laid, pour sand over the top, raking it over the entire path. Then, with a broom, sweep it into every crevice (figure Q).
Web Extra: Tips on Using a Wet SawWet saws are a great tool for cutting brick. They work by continuously channeling water, via a trough, over the bricks while they're being cut. This prevents the brick and the saw from getting too hot. But wet saws are also very dangerous if not used properly. Here are some important tips and safety precautions:
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 Pat overcomes her fear of power tools as she learns how to safely use a wet saw to cut brick.
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- Read the owner's manual before using a wet saw.
- Keep blades sharp, clean, and oiled and inspect blades for cracks.
- You must wear goggles or safety glasses with side shields.
- Never wear jewelry.
- Do not wear loose clothing.
- Tie back long hair inside your hard hat.
- Wear hearing protection.
- Never cut unless you have a clear work area and solid footing. Never use a wet saw on a scaffold.
- Always lock saws where children cannot get to them.
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