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Brick, Block & Mortar Calculator
Enter total area (m²/ft²) or length × height. We’ll estimate units and mortar. Add prices to see costs in £ or $.
Please enter a total area or valid length & height.
If provided, we’ll ignore length × height.
For info only; tables assume typical joints.
Used to highlight the nearest table row.
Leave prices blank to hide cost columns. Plasticiser bottles are rounded up.
Brick, Block & Mortar Calculator
Planning a wall project? This calculator estimates how many bricks or blocks you need, along with the amount of mortar required. Ideal for new walls, extensions, garages, and garden builds in both the UK and USA.
Technical Guidance
- Brick Spacing: UK bricks include 10mm joints; USA uses 3/8" mortar gaps
- Mortar Mix: Use a 1:4 or 1:5 sand-to-cement ratio for standard walls
- Joint Volume: Mortar can account for 15–20% of total wall volume
- Coverage Waste: Always allow 5–10% extra bricks and mortar
Brick, Block & Mortar Estimation (UK & USA)
| Wall Area | Unit Type | Standard Size | Units Needed | Mortar Volume | Cement Bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 m² | UK Brick | 215 × 102.5 × 65 mm | ~500 | ~0.20 m³ | ~8 |
| 20 m² | UK Block | 440 × 215 × 100 mm | ~180 | ~0.35 m³ | ~14 |
| 100 ft² | US Brick | 7 5/8" × 2 1/4" × 3 5/8" | ~450 | ~7.5 ft³ | ~8 |
| 150 ft² | US CMU Block | 16" × 8" × 8" | ~140 | ~11 ft³ | ~12 |
Pro Tips
- Buy bricks or blocks in full packs — it’s more cost-effective
- Use pointing mix (1:4 or 1:5) for repointing old joints
- Keep mortar consistent across walls to avoid colour patching
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting to include waste factor for mortar and breakage
- Using block dimensions without mortar joint in total height
- Underestimating if wall includes openings (windows, doors)
FAQs
- How many bricks per m²? → Around 50–60 standard UK bricks
- How much mortar per 1000 bricks? → Roughly 0.25–0.30 m³ or 8–10 bags of cement
- Can I mix bricks and blocks? → Yes, but calculate each section separately
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