Brick Calculator

For standard modular bricks (7.625" x 2.25") with 3/8" mortar joints, you need approximately 6.75 bricks per square foot for a single-wythe wall. King-size bricks require about 4.5 per square foot, while utility bricks need only 3 per square foot. The exact number depends on brick dimensions and mortar joint width. Always add 5-10% for waste, cuts, and breakage. For a 100 sq ft wall with standard bricks, order about 700-750 bricks.

Running bond is the most common pattern—each row is offset by half a brick, creating a staggered look that's structurally strong and uses the least cuts. Stack bond aligns all bricks vertically for a modern, grid appearance but requires metal reinforcement as it's structurally weaker. Flemish bond alternates headers (short end) and stretchers (long side) in each row, creating a decorative pattern popular in historic buildings. English bond alternates entire rows of headers and stretchers. Running bond is best for DIYers; decorative bonds require more skill and 10-15% more bricks due to increased cutting.

For standard bricks with 3/8" joints, one 80-lb bag of mortar mix covers approximately 30-35 bricks or about 5 square feet of wall. You'll also need roughly 1 cubic foot of sand per 80-lb bag of mortar. For a 100 sq ft wall (about 675 bricks), plan for 20-25 bags of mortar and 0.75-1 cubic yard of sand. Actual usage varies with joint thickness, brick porosity, and worker experience. Hot, dry weather increases mortar consumption as bricks absorb more moisture.

In the US, common brick sizes include: Standard (8" x 3.625" x 2.25"), Modular (7.625" x 3.625" x 2.25"), Queen (7.625" x 3" x 2.75"), King (9.625" x 3" x 2.75"), and Utility (11.625" x 3.625" x 3.625"). Modular bricks are most common in modern construction as they create exact 8" modules with mortar joints. UK standard bricks are 215mm x 102.5mm x 65mm. When calculating, use actual brick dimensions plus your intended mortar joint width (typically 3/8" or 1/2") to determine coverage.

Subtract the square footage of all openings from your total wall area before calculating brick quantity. A standard door is about 21 sq ft (3' x 7'), and a typical window is 9-15 sq ft. For example, a 200 sq ft wall with one door (21 sq ft) and two windows (24 sq ft total) has a net area of 155 sq ft. However, don't reduce your waste factor—openings actually increase cutting waste because you need partial bricks around frames. Some masons add 2-3% extra for walls with multiple openings.