Brick & Block Calculator
Calculate bricks or blocks and mortar for walls, patios, and walkways.
Results
Wall / Patio Area —
Bricks Needed —
Mortar Bags (80 lb) —
Includes waste factor. Mortar estimate based on standard 3/8" joints.
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How to Calculate Bricks
The number of bricks you need depends on the wall area and brick size. For walls with mortar, you need to account for the mortar joint thickness (typically 3/8").
Brick Formula (Wall)
Wall Area = Length × Height (in sq ft)
Bricks per sq ft depends on brick size:
- Standard brick: ~6.75 per sq ft (with 3/8" mortar)
- CMU 8" block: ~1.125 per sq ft
Total Bricks = Wall Area × Bricks/sq ft × (1 + Waste%)
Bricks per sq ft depends on brick size:
- Standard brick: ~6.75 per sq ft (with 3/8" mortar)
- CMU 8" block: ~1.125 per sq ft
Total Bricks = Wall Area × Bricks/sq ft × (1 + Waste%)
Bricks per Square Foot
- Standard brick: 6.75 bricks/sq ft (running bond with 3/8" joint)
- Modular brick: 6.86 bricks/sq ft
- Queen brick: 5.76 bricks/sq ft
- 8" CMU block: 1.125 blocks/sq ft
- 6" CMU block: 1.125 blocks/sq ft
- 4" × 8" pavers: 4.5 pavers/sq ft (no mortar)
Mortar Estimates
- Standard brick wall: 1 bag (80 lb) per 30-35 bricks
- CMU block wall: 1 bag per 12-15 blocks
- Use Type N mortar for above-grade walls
- Use Type S mortar for below-grade, retaining walls, and high-wind areas
Bond Patterns
- Running bond: Most common, strongest. Bricks offset by half.
- Stack bond: Aligned vertically. Decorative only — not structural.
- Herringbone: 45-degree zigzag. Popular for patios. Uses 5-10% more material.
- Basket weave: Pairs of bricks alternating direction. Popular for walkways.
A good masonry trowel set is essential for clean mortar joints. Pick up concrete mix at Home Depot while you're sourcing materials.