Brick Calculator - Calculate Number of Bricks or Blocks Needed

How to Use the Brick Calculator

1. Enter wall dimensions — length and height in feet or meters
2. Choose brick type — modular, queen, king, utility, or custom size
3. Set mortar joint — standard 3/8" (10mm) or your specific thickness
4. Add waste allowance — 10% is standard for breakage and offcuts
5. Get count — total bricks needed plus mortar volume estimate

Perfect for masons, contractors, and DIY brickwork projects. All calculations done in your browser.

Features

• Multiple brick types — modular, queen, king, utility, custom
• Block option — CMU block sizes available
• Mortar estimate — cubic feet of mortar needed
• Waste allowance — includes 10% for breakage
• Paver mode — for patios and walkways

Use Cases

• Building a garden wall — estimate materials for a 20-foot long, 4-foot high retaining wall
• Constructing a patio — calculate how many pavers you need for a 12×16 foot outdoor space
• Home renovation — plan brickwork for a fireplace surround or exterior accent wall
• Commercial construction — order the right quantity of CMU blocks for a warehouse build
• Estimating projects — contractors preparing quotes for clients need accurate material counts

FAQ

How many bricks do I need per square foot?

For a standard modular brick (3-5/8" × 2-1/4") with a 3/8" mortar joint, you need approximately 7 bricks per square foot of wall surface. This varies by brick size and joint thickness.

Should I order extra bricks?

Yes. Always add at least 10% for waste, breakage, and cuts. It’s better to have leftover bricks than to run out mid-project and struggle with color matching from a different batch.

What’s the difference between a brick and a block?

Bricks are smaller, typically 2-1/4" thick, and designed for walls, façades, and pavements. Blocks (CMU — Concrete Masonry Units) are much larger, typically 8×8×16 inches, used for structural walls and foundations.

Do I need mortar for every type of project?

Most permanent brick structures use mortar. For patios and walkways, you can use sand-set installation (mortarless) or mortar-set for greater stability. The calculator includes mortar estimates for mortared projects.

How do I measure for a non-rectangular wall?

Break the wall into rectangular sections, calculate each separately, and add the totals. For arches or triangles, estimate generously and add extra waste allowance.

Tips

• Order all bricks from the same batch to ensure consistent color — different batches vary noticeably
• Store bricks off the ground and covered with a tarp to protect them from weather before installation
• For large projects, have a few extra bricks on hand for future repairs — matching existing brick is very difficult