Brick Calculator

Concrete & Masonry

Brick Calculator

Estimate the number of bricks needed for a wall using brick size, mortar joints, openings and waste.

Wall Details

Recommended Bricks
915 bricks
Includes 10% waste
Net Wall Area140 ft²
Bricks per ft²5.94
Before Waste832
Estimated Cost—
Brick dimensions and mortar joints vary by region and product. Enter the actual face size of the brick you plan to use.

How Many Bricks Do I Need?

The calculator first determines the net wall area after subtracting openings. It then divides that area by the face area occupied by one brick plus its mortar joints.

Brick Calculation Formula

Net Wall Area = Wall Length × Wall Height - Openings

The effective brick module includes both brick dimensions and mortar joint thickness.

Use actual dimensions: Brick names and nominal sizes can differ from the actual manufactured face dimensions.

Why Mortar Joint Size Matters

A mortar joint changes the total wall area covered by each brick. Even a small change in joint thickness can change the total quantity required over a large wall.

Example

A wall that is 20 ft long and 8 ft high has a gross area of 160 ft².

If 20 ft² of doors or windows are subtracted, the net wall area becomes 140 ft².

The calculator then applies the entered brick face dimensions and mortar joint to estimate the number of bricks before and after waste.

Why Add Brick Waste?

Extra bricks help cover cuts, breakage and future repairs. Matching bricks can also become difficult to source later if a product line is discontinued or production color changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this calculator include mortar?

No. Mortar usage depends on wall thickness, brick dimensions, joint profile and installation method.

Should I subtract windows and doors?

Yes, large openings can be subtracted from the wall area to improve the brick estimate.

How much extra brick should I buy?

The appropriate waste allowance depends on cuts, breakage, pattern and project complexity. A modest allowance is common for straightforward work.

Planning estimate: Structural masonry should follow project specifications, applicable building codes and professional requirements.

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