What is the preferred slope for a brick paver walkway in a well drained area?

• A. 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch
• B. 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch
• C. 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch
• D. 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch

Answer: (B)

Drainage is the key factor for a brick paver walkway. A gentle slope helps water shed off the surface rather than pool in the joints or behind bricks. For a walkway in a well-drained area, the preferred slope is about one-eighth to one-quarter inch per foot. That means for every horizontal foot, the surface should drop roughly 0.125 to 0.25 inches toward the edge or toward a drainage location.

If the slope is steeper, water may run off too quickly and can destabilize the bedding and edge restraints. If it’s too shallow, water can puddle between bricks, leading to moss, efflorescence, or freeze-thaw damage. Maintaining this range helps keep the walkway stable, comfortable underfoot, and well-drained.