Brick and Mortar Calculator

Explanation

Brick quantity estimates depend on more than wall area. Each brick occupies a face area that includes the mortar joint. A thicker joint increases the effective brick footprint and reduces the number of bricks per square unit. This calculator uses standard brick sizes and adds the selected joint thickness to the length and height of each brick to determine the true modular size. That modular size is then used to compute how many bricks are required to cover the total wall area. A waste factor accounts for cuts, breakage, and layout adjustments on the job site.

Mortar volume is based on the difference between the total wall volume and the volume occupied by the bricks themselves. For a single-wythe wall, wall thickness is approximated by the brick width. The calculator multiplies the wall area by the thickness to compute total wall volume, then subtracts the brick volume (brick count times individual brick volume). This yields an estimated mortar volume. The result is converted into bag counts using a typical yield per bag, which is a practical metric for ordering. Because mortar yield varies by mix and moisture, always check the bag label and adjust if needed.

This tool is designed for material estimation and planning, not structural design. For load bearing walls, reinforcement, and lintels, follow engineering specifications and local code requirements. Use this estimator to plan purchasing, schedule deliveries, and reduce waste, then verify with field measurements and shop drawings. The more accurate your wall dimensions and joint thickness inputs, the closer your material takeoff will be to reality.

If your project includes corners, piers, or special bond patterns, brick usage may increase beyond a simple area calculation. Mortar volume can also shift with recessed joints, raked joints, or wider head joints. Consider adding an extra margin when ordering, especially for projects with numerous openings or decorative details that require additional cuts.

Formula

Modular face size: Lm = L + J, Hm = H + J

Bricks per area: bricks = area / (Lm x Hm)

Wall volume: Vwall = area x thickness

Mortar volume: Vmortar = Vwall - bricks x (L x H x W)

Example Calculation

For a 100 sq ft wall using modular bricks (7.5 x 3.5 x 2.25 in) with a 3/8 inch joint, the calculator estimates roughly 600 bricks. Mortar volume is about 0.9 cubic feet, or roughly 2 bags depending on mix yield.

FAQs

Why does joint thickness change brick count?

The joint adds to the effective brick size, so each brick covers more area as the joint grows.

Can I use this for veneer walls?

Yes, just use the veneer area and a single-wythe thickness. Add substrate and ties separately.

How do I estimate mortar mix type?

This calculator only estimates volume. Mix type depends on exposure and structural requirements.

Should I add extra bricks for cuts?

Yes. Use the waste factor to cover breakage, cuts, and site adjustments.

Does this include flashing or reinforcement?

No. Those components should be accounted for in the project specification.

How it works

This tool uses modular brick geometry and mortar joint thickness to estimate brick count and mortar volume. All calculations run client-side.

Disclaimer

This is a material estimator only. Verify structural requirements, reinforcement, and local codes for masonry construction.