Brick Calculator

Standard modular bricks (3-5/8″ × 2-1/4″ × 7-5/8″) require about 6.86 bricks per sq ft for a wall (with 3/8″ mortar joints) or 4.5 bricks per sq ft for a flat patio. King-size bricks need about 5.76 per sq ft for walls. The exact count depends on brick dimensions, mortar joint width, and bond pattern. Always add 5–10% for waste and breakage.

Standard clay bricks cost $0.50–$1.50 each ($3–$10 per sq ft). Concrete bricks cost $0.35–$0.80 each. Specialty or face bricks cost $1.00–$3.00+ each. Thin brick veneer costs $3–$8 per sq ft. Buying by the pallet (500–600 bricks) saves 10–20% vs. buying individually. Mortar, sand, and labor add $8–$15 per sq ft for professional installation.

For standard modular bricks with 3/8″ mortar joints, plan on approximately 7 bags (80 lb) of pre-mixed mortar per 100 sq ft of wall area. One bag covers about 14–15 sq ft of brick wall. For patio/paver applications laid on a sand bed (no mortar between bricks), you only need mortar or polymeric sand for the joints — about 2–3 bags per 100 sq ft.

Running bond (staggered half-brick offsets) is the most common and easiest to lay. Stack bond (bricks aligned vertically) is modern but structurally weaker. Flemish bond alternates headers and stretchers in each course for a traditional look. Herringbone (45° or 90°) is popular for patios and driveways. Basket weave alternates pairs of horizontal and vertical bricks.

Standard modular brick: 3-5/8″ × 2-1/4″ × 7-5/8″ (most common in the US). King size: 3-5/8″ × 2-3/4″ × 9-5/8″. Queen size: 3-1/8″ × 2-3/4″ × 9-5/8″. Utility/economy: 3-5/8″ × 3-5/8″ × 11-5/8″. Thin brick veneer: 3-5/8″ × 2-1/4″ × 0.5″. All dimensions are nominal — actual sizes are about 3/8″ smaller to account for mortar joints.

Brick patios and garden walls under 3 ft are good DIY projects. You need basic tools: trowel, level, mason line, brick set/chisel, and a rubber mallet. Expect to lay 30–50 bricks per hour as a beginner vs. 100–150 for a professional. For structural walls, chimneys, or anything over 4 ft tall, hire a licensed mason — improper construction can be a safety hazard.

Clay bricks (kiln-fired, traditional, very durable) are the most common. Concrete bricks (molded, less expensive, uniform color) are good for non-visible walls. Engineering bricks (high strength, low absorption) are used for foundations and retaining walls. Fire bricks (refractory, heat-resistant) are used for fireplaces and ovens. Reclaimed/recycled bricks offer a vintage look at $0.75–$2.00 each.

For a few cuts, score the brick with a brick set (cold chisel) and tap with a hammer. For cleaner cuts, use an angle grinder with a diamond masonry blade — wear safety glasses, ear protection, and a dust mask. A wet saw (tile saw with masonry blade) gives the cleanest cuts and reduces dust. Rent a masonry saw ($50–$100/day) for large projects with many cuts.