DIY Cost Tools
Brick Calculator
Estimate wall area, brick quantity, waste, and brick cost using the face dimensions of the brick and the planned mortar-joint thickness.
Measure: Measure wall length and height, subtract major openings, and use the exposed brick face—not the bed depth—for brick dimensions.
How the estimate works: The calculator uses your measurements, unit conversions, waste allowance, and product coverage to create a planning quantity. Review the formula shown above, then read the matching guide below before ordering. See How Our Calculators Work for assumptions and limitations.
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How this calculator works
Brick module area = (brick length + joint) × (brick height + joint). Net wall area is divided by the module area, then waste is added and the brick count is rounded up.
Use the installed module size
The mortar joint contributes to the space covered by each brick. Verify actual brick dimensions and the joint specified for the project; nominal brick names are not precise enough for ordering.
Plan the complete masonry system
This estimate covers brick units only. Mortar, ties, flashing, weeps, lintels, caps, reinforcement, drainage, delivery, scaffolding, and disposal may also be required. Structural and veneer walls must follow approved details and local code.
Read the complete brick wall planning guide: quantity, mortar joints, and waste.
Brick wall example
An 80-square-foot wall using a brick and mortar-joint combination that the supplier rates at 7 bricks per square foot starts at 560 bricks. A 7% allowance raises the planning quantity to about 600 bricks. That coverage rate is only an example: brick face sizes and mortar joints vary, so use the manufacturer or masonry supplier’s installed coverage for the exact unit.
Measure openings and wall details separately
Calculate each wall rectangle, subtract large doors and windows, and add gables or returns as separate shapes. Count corners, soldier courses, sills, caps, and accent bands independently because they may use different units or increase cutting. The result does not size a footing, reinforcement, ties, lintels, mortar, flashing, or drainage. Structural masonry should follow approved plans and local requirements.