Masonry calculator
Brick Calculator
Estimate single-wythe face bricks using actual face dimensions, mortar joints, openings, and waste.
Planning estimate, not a contractor quote. Review the assumptions and replace presets with local prices when available.
Method
How this calculator works
Brick quantity depends on the repeating brick-and-joint module. This tool calculates a net wall-face area and divides it by that module, then applies an allowance. It is useful for a first takeoff of a simple face, not a substitute for counting special units, corners, bond patterns, or multiple wythes.
Net wall ft² = wall length × height − openings. Module ft² = (brick face length + joint) × (brick face height + joint) ÷ 144. Bricks = ceil(net wall area ÷ module area × allowance factor).
Worked example
A realistic starting point
A wall 20 × 8 ft with 20 ft² of openings has 140 ft² net area. A 7⅝ × 2¼ inch face with a ⅜ inch joint makes an 8 × 2⅝ inch module, or 21 in². At 10% allowance, the estimate is 1,056 bricks.
What changes the answer
Factors worth checking
Use the brick face
Enter length and height visible on the wall, not brick depth. For different orientations or specials, calculate the appropriate unit count separately.
Joint module
The calculator includes one horizontal and vertical joint in the repeating module. Boundary details and coursing may change the exact laid-out count.
Scope the wall
A single face estimate does not include returns, piers, a second wythe, or hidden masonry. Break the actual project into appropriate faces and details.
Common questions
Brick FAQ
Does this include mortar bags?
No. Mortar volume depends on joint geometry, wall thickness, brick details, and product yield.
Can I enter other brick sizes?
Yes. Use actual face dimensions and the project’s joint width.
Why does a layout count differ?
Whole courses, cut units, corners, and bond patterns are discrete layout decisions that an area ratio cannot fully represent.
Evidence
Sources & review
- Brick Industry Association — dimensioning and estimatingMasonry modules and unit dimensions for quantity estimating.
Published by Calcstead. Report a correction.
Method and source links reviewed September 6, 2026. Price presets are editable planning inputs and should be replaced with current local information.