Brick Calculator
Find how many bricks you need for a wall, including mortar joints and waste.
Estimate the number of bricks for a wall in seconds. The calculator accounts for the mortar joint around each brick and adds a waste allowance for cuts and breakage.
How the Math Works
The Brick Calculator uses a formula to determine the number of bricks required per square foot of wall. The calculation begins with 144 (the number of square inches in a square foot) divided by the product of (brick length plus mortar joint) and (brick height plus mortar joint). This accounts for the total area each brick occupies, including the space taken by mortar. For example, a brick measuring 8 inches long and 2.25 inches high with a 0.375-inch joint would require calculating (8 + 0.375) × (2.25 + 0.375) = 8.375 × 2.625 = 21.984 sq in per brick. Dividing 144 by 21.984 gives approximately 6.55 bricks per square foot, which rounds up to 7 bricks to ensure full coverage.
Practical Applications
To apply this calculator, first measure the length and height of a single brick in inches, then input the standard mortar joint thickness (typically 0.375 inches or 3/8 inch). Multiply the resulting bricks per square foot by the total wall area in square feet. Always add 5-10% for waste, breakage, or cutting bricks for edges and corners. For irregular walls or non-standard joints, adjust the joint dimension in the formula accordingly. This ensures accurate material ordering and reduces project delays from shortages.
Day-to-Day Use
This tool simplifies home construction and renovation projects by providing precise material estimates. Whether building a garden wall, repairing a fence, or planning a DIY project, users can quickly calculate brick quantities to budget accurately and avoid overbuying. It also helps contractors prepare orders efficiently, minimizing trips to the supplier and reducing material waste. By accounting for mortar joints and waste, the calculator ensures sufficient materials arrive on time, streamlining the building process for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Worked example
A 20 ft × 8 ft = 160 ft² wall with 8×2.25 in bricks and a 3/8 in joint: unit = (8.375)(2.625) = 21.98 in² → 144/21.98 = 6.55 bricks/ft² bricks = 160 × 6.55 × 1.10 ≈ 1,154.
FAQ
How many bricks per square foot?
With a standard modular brick and 3/8 in joint, about 6.5–7 bricks per square foot of single-wythe wall.
Why add waste?
Cuts at corners/openings and breakage mean you should order 5–10% extra.