Brick counts depend on wall size and the specific brick size and laying pattern used, which affects how many bricks fit per square meter. This calculator estimates total bricks needed from wall dimensions and a bricks-per-square-meter rate, plus a standard waste allowance.
The formula
For a 6 m by 2 m wall (12 m²) at 60 standard bricks per m²: 12 × 60 = 720 bricks, plus 10% waste = 792 bricks.
Typical bricks-per-square-meter rates
| Brick type / bond | Bricks per m² (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Standard brick, single-skin wall | ~60 |
| Standard brick, double-skin (cavity) wall | ~120 |
| Larger block-sized brick | ~10–15 |
Check your specific brick's dimensions and your local supplier's coverage guidance, since this varies by brick size and mortar joint thickness.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting door and window openings. This calculator assumes a solid wall — subtract the area of any openings before calculating for a more accurate count.
- Ignoring wall type. A cavity (double-skin) wall needs roughly double the bricks of a single-skin wall for the same wall area.
- Skipping the waste allowance. Breakage and cutting waste is normal — a 10% buffer is a common standard.
Frequently asked questions
How many bricks do I need per square meter?
It depends on brick size and wall type — a standard brick single-skin wall typically needs around 60 bricks per square meter, while a cavity (double-skin) wall needs roughly double that.
Should I subtract doors and windows from the wall area?
Yes, for an accurate count. This calculator assumes a solid wall, so subtract opening areas from your wall dimensions before calculating if your wall has doors or windows.
How much extra should I order for waste?
A common standard is about 10% extra to account for breakage and cutting waste.