Brick Calculator
Brick count and mortar bags for a wall.
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Laying brick is an old craft that rewards patience. A short garden wall or planter is a realistic DIY goal; the keys are a solid footing, consistent mortar joints, and checking level and plumb on every course.
DifficultyAdvanced
TimeA weekend for a small wall once the footing has cured
SkillsTrowel control and consistent mortar work take practice — try a small project first
PermitsFreestanding walls over a few feet, or any structural masonry, often need a footing detail and a permit.
Tools you'll need
- Brick trowel and pointing tool
- Mason's line and line blocks
- 4-ft level
- Brick hammer or wet saw
- Mixing tub or mortar mixer
- Jointer (for striking joints)
Step by step
- Pour a footing Brick needs a stable, level concrete footing below frost line. Let it cure before laying.
- Dry-lay the first course Lay bricks out without mortar to plan spacing and minimize cuts, marking your layout.
- Lay in mortar to a line Throw a mortar bed, butter the ends, and set each brick to a taut mason's line. Keep joints a consistent 3/8".
- Check level and plumb constantly Level every course and plumb the ends with each brick. Small errors compound fast in masonry.
- Strike the joints When the mortar is thumbprint-firm, tool the joints concave for a clean, weather-shedding finish.
Common mistakes
Skipping the footing
Brick on bare soil cracks and leans. Pour a proper concrete footing first.
Inconsistent mortar joints
Use a 3/8" joint and a mason's line so courses stay straight and even.
Mortar too wet or too dry
Aim for a workable, peanut-butter consistency that holds a ridge. Re-temper small batches with a little water, not a flood.
Safety
- Wet mortar is caustic — wear gloves and rinse skin.
- Eye protection when cutting brick; silica dust is harmful — cut wet.
Frequently asked questions
How many bricks per square foot?
About 7 standard modular bricks per square foot of wall face with 3/8" joints. The calculator above gives an exact count plus mortar.
How much mortar do I need?
Roughly one 80-lb bag per ~125 bricks. The calculator estimates bags from your brick count.
What mortar joint size should I use?
3/8" is the standard for modular brick — consistent joints are what make a wall look professional.
Next steps for this project
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