Concrete Block Estimator Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
$640 – $1,274
$8.00 – $15.93 per sq ft installed
Blocks Needed
100
Mortar Bags
3
Material Cost
$140 – $274
Labor Cost
$500 – $1,000
Wall Area
80 sq ft
Tip: Block count includes a 10% waste factor for cuts, breakage, and future repairs. Order an extra 5% if the wall has many openings (doors, windows).
Footing Required: Block walls need a concrete footing at least twice the wall width and 12″ deep (below frost line). Budget $6–$12/LF for a poured concrete footing.
Disclaimer: Estimates are for budgeting purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, material availability, and project complexity. Always get professional quotes for exact pricing.
Concrete Block Cost Breakdown
| Block Size | Standard | Split-Face | Lightweight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8×8×16 | $1.25 – $2.50 | $1.75 – $3.50 | $1.44 – $2.88 |
| 12×8×16 | $2.00 – $4.00 | $2.80 – $5.60 | $2.30 – $4.60 |
| 4×8×16 | $1.00 – $2.00 | $1.40 – $2.80 | $1.15 – $2.30 |
* Cost per block (material only). Labor adds $5–$10/block installed.
Average Project Costs (8×8×16 Standard)
| Project | Wall Area | Blocks | Mortar | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garden Wall 20×3 | 60 sq ft | 75 | 3 bags | $484 – $962 |
| Retaining Wall 30×4 | 120 sq ft | 149 | 5 bags | $956 – $1,903 |
| Foundation Wall 40×8 | 320 sq ft | 397 | 12 bags | $2,541 – $5,059 |
| Garage Wall 60×10 | 600 sq ft | 743 | 23 bags | $4,759 – $9,472 |
| Full Basement 120×8 | 960 sq ft | 1,188 | 36 bags | $7,605 – $15,138 |
* Includes 10% waste factor, mortar, and labor ($5–$10/block). Does not include footing, rebar, or waterproofing.
How We Calculate
Our concrete block estimator calculates material quantities and costs based on wall dimensions, block size, and block type. The calculator includes a 10% waste factor, mortar quantities, and full labor estimates.
How the math works: Blocks needed = wall area (sq ft) × 1.125 blocks/sq ft × 1.10 waste factor, rounded up. Mortar bags = 3 bags per 100 blocks. Total cost = (blocks × cost per block × type multiplier) + mortar cost + labor cost.
Block Size Comparison
8×8×16 (Standard) is the most common CMU block, used for foundations, retaining walls, and general construction. 12×8×16 (Wide) provides greater structural capacity and insulation, typically used for tall retaining walls and commercial buildings. 4×8×16 (Half) is used for veneer, partition walls, and non-structural applications.
Block Type Comparison
Standard blocks (1.0× cost) are the baseline — smooth gray CMU for structural and utility walls. Split-face blocks (1.4×) have a decorative rough texture resembling natural stone, eliminating the need for separate facing. Lightweight blocks (1.15×) weigh 25–30% less, reducing labor fatigue on tall walls.
Additional Costs
Our estimates cover blocks, mortar, and standard labor. Additional costs may include: concrete footing ($6–$12/LF), vertical rebar ($0.75–$1.50/LF for walls over 4'), cap blocks ($2–$5/LF), waterproofing ($3–$7/sq ft for below-grade walls), and fill grout for reinforced cores ($0.50–$1.00 per core).
Waste Factor
A 10% waste factor is standard for block walls to account for cuts around corners, openings, and breakage during transport. Walls with many windows or doors may require 15% waste. The waste factor is applied to the block count before calculating material costs.
Data Sources
Pricing data is compiled from HomeAdvisor, Angi, HomeGuide, Fixr, and verified masonry contractor estimates across multiple US regions (February 2026). Costs vary by region and material availability.
Last updated: 2026-02-04
Frequently Asked Questions
How many concrete blocks per square foot of wall? +
Standard 8×8×16 blocks cover 1.125 blocks per square foot (each block covers 0.89 sq ft with mortar joints). For a 100 sq ft wall, you need approximately 113 standard blocks before waste — or 124 blocks with a 10% waste factor for cuts and breakage.
How much does a concrete block wall cost? +
A concrete block wall costs $8–$16 per square foot installed, including blocks, mortar, and labor. A small 60 sq ft garden wall costs $484–$962. A foundation wall (320 sq ft) costs $2,541–$5,059. Split-face decorative blocks add ~40% to material costs.
How many bags of mortar do I need per block? +
Plan for 3 bags of mortar (80 lb bags of Type S or Type N) per 100 blocks. Each bag costs $5–$8. A 320 sq ft foundation wall with ~397 blocks needs about 12 bags of mortar. Type S mortar is recommended for below-grade and structural walls.
What is the difference between block types? +
Standard blocks ($1.25–$2.50/block) are smooth gray CMU for structural walls. Split-face blocks ($1.75–$3.50/block) have a rough, natural stone texture for decorative walls. Lightweight blocks ($1.44–$2.88/block) weigh 25–30% less, making them easier to handle but slightly more expensive.
Can I build a concrete block wall myself? +
DIY is feasible for short walls under 4 ft tall (garden walls, landscape borders). You'll need basic masonry tools ($50–$100), a level, string line, and mixing equipment. For structural walls, retaining walls over 4 ft, or foundation walls, always hire a licensed mason — improper construction can cause collapse.
Do I need a permit for a concrete block wall? +
Most jurisdictions require a building permit for walls over 4 ft tall or any wall serving a structural purpose (foundation, retaining). Permit fees range from $50–$300. Retaining walls over 4 ft typically also require engineered plans ($500–$1,500). Check your local building department before starting.
Does a concrete block wall need rebar? +
Walls over 4 ft tall require vertical rebar (#4 or #5) placed every 4th core, grouted solid. Horizontal reinforcement (bond beam blocks with rebar) is needed every 4 ft of wall height. Rebar adds $0.75–$1.50 per linear foot. All foundation walls require rebar per IRC code.
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