Want to calculate bricks for a wall? You’ve probably experienced a time when you stood in your wellies, squinting at a half-finished garden wall because you've run out of bricks. Not ideal, is it?
Misjudging the number of bricks needed for a DIY project is annoying. And it can throw a very large spanner in the works.
It pushes back your project’s timeline, potentially leading to unexpected costs. Plus, you might end up scrambling to order more bricks at the last minute. Worse still, you could find yourself getting stuck with a pile you can’t return.
That’s why nailing your brick count on the first go is essential for keeping your blood pressure in check and your wallet intact.
Use our FREE calculator1. Choosing your bricks isn’t just about counting
Picking the right brick might seem straightforward. But it isn’t – there’s more to it than meets the eye.
Bricks come in different shapes, sizes, and textures. Each is suited for a specific type of job. Explore our wide range of options on our Brick Selection page to find the ideal brick for every aspect of your build, whether functional or decorative.
Maybe you’re crafting a quaint garden boundary. Or perhaps you just want to give your home a new rustic façade. Whatever your project, each has its one-off requirements. What type of brick you pick can massively influence how many you’ll need.
A dense, heavyweight brick might be great for a sturdy retaining wall, while a lighter, decorative brick could be the ticket for that trendy new BBQ area. And, the beautiful finish – be it smooth, sand-faced, or antiqued – can also influence your decision.
So, before you even think about numbers, consider what your project aims to achieve and choose a brick that fits the bill – not just your budget.
Not quite sure which brick matches best with your existing structures? Check out our Brick Matching service to find the perfect complement to your project.
Before you even think about numbers, consider what your project aims to achieve and choose a brick that fits the bill
2. Calculating your needs: a step-by-step guide
So, you’ve picked your perfect brick. Great! But, “Just how many bricks do I need?” we hear you moan.
Here’s a straightforward example for you.
Let’s say you're planning to build a wall - it’s 6 metres long and 1.5 metres high.
First, work out the area of the wall – then multiply the length by the height: 6m x 1.5m = 9m².
Since each square metre requires roughly 60 bricks, you'd start with a base need of 540 bricks.
But hold on, what about the unexpected – like chipped bricks or a miscount? That’s where wastage comes in.
Add an extra 10%, or 54 bricks in this case. This means you avoid any mid-project panics.
Your final reckoning? An orderly 594 bricks. Remember, this is a ballpark for standard bricks and single-layer walls.
If your design includes extra features like pillars or fancy bond patterns, you'll need to adjust your figures. Always better to have a few too many than too few, right?
Fancy getting started? Request a personalised Brick Quotation to guarantee you get the best value for your specific requirements.
3. Don’t forget the wastage!
Nobody likes waste, but in bricklaying, it's better to be looking at it than for it.
That extra 10% isn’t just for breakages. What about the cuts for corners and ends or the odd brick that just looks out of place? These things happen, and having a spare stack can be a real project saver.
Also, it isn’t just extra you need. Your project must stay moving without costly pauses or last-minute dashes to the builders' merchants. Think of that wastage as your project’s safety net – it ensures you have enough bricks to handle whatever comes your way.
4. What if you’re using different-sized bricks?
Not all bricks are created equal, and size does tend to matter when it comes to your final count. The typical UK metric brick measures 215 x 102.5 x 65 mm. But what if you’re using something a bit out of the ordinary?
For instance, larger imperial bricks or differently shaped blocks could drastically alter your calculations. Imperial bricks, which are larger, might only need about 57 per square metre.
Going for a more substantial block, like the kind used for construction rather than aesthetics? You might find you need fewer per square metre.
Always check the size and coverage guidelines when ordering your materials. A quick call to your supplier can save you a real headache later.
Make sure you understand how brick dimensions impact your project – it’ll keep you from under or over-ordering.
5. Online tools to the rescue - meet the Brickhunter calculator
Why guess when you can calculate? Our free online brick calculator takes the guesswork out of your project.
Simply input your wall’s dimensions and the type of brick you’re using, and it’ll do the heavy lifting for you – it factors in everything from size variations to necessary wastage. It’s a user-friendly tool that ensures you order exactly what you need, saving you time and money.
A little unsure? Can’t decide what type of brick to go for? Questions about the quantity? You’re just a click away from expert advice. Our technology will simplify your build so you can focus on the fun part: seeing your project come to life.
6. Top advice on tap
Even with the best tools at your disposal, sometimes you need a human touch. Thankfully, that’s where our expert Brick Estimation service comes into play. Our specialists are just a call away – they’ll help you finesse your brick order to perfection.
Tackling a complex design that defies standard calculations? Just want a bit of consolation? Don’t panic – we’re here to guide you. We can help you adjust for unique project features, like intricate patterns or additional structures so you have precisely the right number of bricks – no more, no less. You get the peace of mind and expert care.
We're here for you
Now you're kitted out with the right knowledge and tools, it's time to get building. After all, every victorious project starts with precise planning. Our calculator along with our expert advice means you can approach your masonry project confidently.
No more guessing games or excessive expenses – just the fulfilment of a job well done. So, measure twice, calculate once, and start your DIY brick project knowing you have everything you need to lay the foundations of something great!
If you need a little more guidance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experts are eager to assist you with your project!
