Concrete & masonryFree calculator
Calculate how many bricks or concrete blocks you need for a wall, and how much mortar. Choose your brick or block size, subtract any openings and get a full shopping list.
Your shopping list
How to measure
- Measure the length and height of the wall.
- Measure any windows, doors or gaps and add up their area.
- Choose the brick or block size you plan to use.
The formula
Wall area = length × height − openings Bricks = wall area × bricks per unit area × (1 + waste %) US modular brick ≈ 6.86 per sq ft · UK brick ≈ 60 per m² · block ≈ 10 per m²
Worked example
A 20 ft × 4 ft garden wall is 80 sq ft. With modular bricks at 6.86 per sq ft and 5% waste you need 577 bricks and about 15 bags of mortar mix.
Tips before you buy
- These figures are for a single-skin (half-brick) wall. Double them for a double-skin wall.
- Order 5–10% extra to allow for breakages and cuts.
- Walls over about 3 ft (1 m) high may need foundations and building approval.
Frequently asked questions
How many bricks in a square metre?
About 60 standard UK bricks (215 × 65 mm) per m² with 10 mm mortar joints, for a single-skin wall.
How many bricks per square foot?
About 6.86 US modular bricks per sq ft with 3/8 in joints.
How much mortar per 1,000 bricks?
Roughly 7 bags of masonry cement plus sand, or about 25 bags of 80 lb pre-mixed mortar.
Results are estimates for planning only. Always check quantities with your supplier before you buy.