Construction

Brick Calculator

Calculate bricks, mortar, and costs for your masonry project

Quick Answer:A 20x8 ft wall with a 20 sq ft door opening requires approximately 858 standard bricks with 5% waste in 2026. At $0.50-1.50 per brick, material cost ranges from $430-$1,287 plus mortar.

Wall Dimensions

Wall Length (ft)

Wall Height (ft)

Opening Area (sq ft)

Waste Factor (%)

Bricks Needed

Calculating... standard bricks

Wall Area

Mortar Bags

Rows of Brick

Estimated Cost

Visual Comparison

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Cost (mid-range) --

Expert Insight 2026 Pro Tip

In 2026, standard clay bricks cost $0.50-$1.50 each, with premium face bricks reaching $2-5 per unit. Always order 5-10% extra for cuts, breakage, and future repairs -- matching brick colors later can be nearly impossible. For structural walls, use Type S mortar for below-grade and exterior applications, while Type N is adequate for interior non-load-bearing walls. A skilled mason can lay 400-500 bricks per day, so plan labor costs accordingly at $50-80 per hour in most markets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bricks

How many bricks do I need per square foot?

For a standard running bond pattern using modular bricks (8 inches by 3.75 inches by 2.25 inches) with 3/8-inch mortar joints, you need approximately 6.55 bricks per square foot of wall area. This accounts for the mortar joint spacing between each brick. For different bond patterns like Flemish or English bond, the count may vary. Stack bond uses slightly fewer bricks. Always calculate your net wall area first by subtracting doors, windows, and other openings, then multiply by 6.55 and add 5-10% for waste from cuts and breakage.

How much mortar do I need for a brick wall?

One bag of pre-mixed mortar (typically 80 lbs) will lay approximately 125 standard bricks with 3/8-inch joints. To calculate mortar needs, divide your total brick count by 125. For a wall requiring 850 bricks, you would need about 7 bags of mortar. In addition to mortar, you will need clean water for mixing -- approximately 5-6 quarts per 80-lb bag. In cold weather, use mortar with anti-freeze additives. Type S mortar is recommended for exterior walls and below-grade applications, while Type N works well for interior walls.

How much does a brick wall cost in 2026?

In 2026, standard clay bricks cost between $0.50 and $1.50 each depending on quality, color, and region. A typical 160 square foot wall (20x8 ft) requires about 850-1,000 bricks after waste, costing $425-$1,500 for materials alone. Professional installation adds $8-15 per square foot for labor. Total installed cost for a brick wall ranges from $15-30 per square foot including materials, mortar, labor, and scaffolding. Specialty or reclaimed bricks can cost $2-5 each, significantly increasing the total project budget.