Enter your wall dimensions to instantly calculate the bricks and mortar needed.
How the Brick Calculator Works
Enter Wall Length & Height
Subtract Doors/Window Openings
Multiply Area by Bricks per Sq Ft
Add Waste % for Final Total
What is a Brick Calculator?
A Brick Calculator estimates how many individual bricks you need to build a wall, based on the wall's total area, the brick size you're using, and the mortar joint thickness. Since bricks are ordered individually or by the pallet, an accurate estimate helps you avoid a mid-project shortage (which can cause visible color/batch variation if you order more later) or an expensive over-order of leftover material.
The Brick Calculation Formula
Wall Area (ft²) = Length × Height − Opening Area
Bricks Needed = Wall Area × Bricks per Square Foot × (1 + Waste %)
The "bricks per square foot" figure depends on your specific brick size and mortar joint thickness. A standard modular brick with a typical 3/8-inch mortar joint requires approximately 6.75 bricks per square foot, though this varies by brick type — larger bricks like Queen or King size require fewer bricks per square foot to cover the same area.
Common Brick Sizes and Coverage
| Brick Type | Approx. Bricks per Sq Ft | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Modular | 6.75 | Most common residential brick veneer |
| Queen Size | 6.0 | Larger format, fewer bricks needed |
| King Size | 4.5 | Larger format, popular for modern facades |
| Standard, tight joint | 7.0 | Thinner mortar joint increases brick count slightly |
Estimating Mortar
As a general rule of thumb, one 80lb bag of mortar mix typically lays approximately 30-35 standard bricks with a standard 3/8-inch joint. This calculator provides a rough mortar bag estimate based on this ratio, though actual mortar consumption can vary based on joint thickness, brick porosity, and mason technique.
Tips for Ordering Bricks
- Order 10% extra: Cutting, breakage, and future repairs all benefit from having a small buffer of matching bricks on hand.
- Order from the same batch/lot: Bricks can vary slightly in color between production batches, so ordering enough from a single batch avoids visible mismatches.
- Account for pattern complexity: Decorative patterns (herringbone, basketweave) typically increase cutting waste compared to a simple running bond pattern.
- Store bricks properly: Keep bricks covered and off wet ground until installation to prevent moisture absorption issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bricks do I need per square foot?
This depends on your brick size, but standard modular brick with a typical mortar joint requires approximately 6.75 bricks per square foot of wall area.
Should I subtract door and window openings?
Yes, subtracting the area of doors, windows, and other openings from your total wall area gives a more accurate brick estimate, since you won't be bricking over those spaces.
How much extra should I order for waste?
A 10% waste allowance is a common industry standard, though complex patterns or inexperienced installation may benefit from a slightly higher buffer.
Is this calculator suitable for brick veneer or full brick walls?
This calculator estimates brick quantity for wall face area regardless of whether it's veneer or structural, since both are calculated based on the visible wall surface being covered.