Brick & Block Calculator
Work out how many bricks or blocks you'll need for your project. See both totals side-by-side - ideal for cavity walls and mixed builds.
Choose metric or imperial, set your wastage, and get an instant estimate. Each side gives you a clear material breakdown and links straight to matching products on our website.
Custom Sizes
Use bespoke unit dimensions and mortar joint
Wall dimensions
Unit size
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calculate the number of bricks or blocks needed?
Calculate the area of the wall, divide by the face area of a single brick or block (taking the mortar joint into account), then add 5-10% for wastage. Our calculator does this automatically.
How many bricks per m²?
With standard UK bricks (215 × 65mm) and a 10mm mortar joint, you'll need approximately 60 bricks per m². Different brick sizes or joint thicknesses change this figure.
How many blocks per m²?
A standard UK block (440 × 215mm) with a 10mm mortar joint requires about 10 blocks per m². Use Custom Sizes for non-standard blocks.
Do I include mortar joints in the calculation?
Yes - mortar joints form part of the wall area and reduce the number of bricks or blocks needed. Our calculator uses a 10mm joint by default but you can change this in Custom Sizes.
How many bricks are in a pallet?
Usually 400-500 facing bricks per pallet depending on manufacturer. Compare your calculated total with the pack size shown on each product page.
Does this include corners, returns or piers?
No - the calculator estimates flat wall area only. For bonds, returns, piers or specials, increase your wastage allowance or calculate each section separately.
Bricks calculation formula
Wall Area ÷ ((Brick Length + Joint) × (Brick Height + Joint)) = Bricks Needed. The calculator applies this formula instantly.
What's a cavity wall and how does it affect quantities?
A cavity wall has two leaves (inner and outer) separated by a gap. You'll roughly double your quantities compared to a single skin wall. Calculate each leaf separately, then add the totals together.
How much wastage should I allow?
Industry best practice is 5-10% for cuts, breakages and site handling. Use 10% for exposed work, complex shapes, or sites with lots of cuts.
How we calculate
This is a guide only. Figures are based on the following assumptions:
- Standard brick: 215 × 65mm with a 10mm mortar joint (approximately 60 bricks per m²).
- Standard block: 440 × 215mm with a 10mm mortar joint (approximately 10 blocks per m²).
- Calculation method: wall area is divided by the modular face area (unit size + mortar joint added to both length and height).
- Wastage: selected percentage added to base count, then rounded up to the nearest whole unit.
- Flat wall only: the calculation assumes a rectangular flat wall with no corners, returns, piers or openings.
For cavity walls, calculate each leaf separately and add the totals. For complex shapes, increase your wastage allowance or contact our trade team for a precise material list.