Bricks and mortar per m³
Standard bricks, 10 mm joints: brick counts per m³ and per m², and mortar net and gross quantities for five wall thicknesses.
| Wall (mm) | Bricks per m³ | Bricks per m² | Mortar net (m³/m³) | Mortar gross (m³/m³) | Thousands per 10 m³ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 | 552 | 64 | 0.193 | 0.202 | 5.52 |
| 180 | 535 | 96 | 0.217 | 0.228 | 5.35 |
| 240 | 529 | 128 | 0.226 | 0.237 | 5.29 |
| 370 | 522 | 192 | 0.236 | 0.248 | 5.22 |
| 490 | 518 | 256 | 0.242 | 0.254 | 5.18 |
All values are computed from the stated formulas; ranges show the usual spread. Use measured data or the local code where it differs.
How to use this table
- For a bill of quantities, take the net wall volume (deduct openings, tie columns and ring beams) and multiply.
- For purchasing, add 1-2% breakage on bricks and a further 5% site loss on the gross mortar figure.
- For a quick site estimate, 128 bricks per m² in a 240 mm wall and 64 in a 120 mm wall are the two numbers that get used.
Common misuse
- Using one-minus-brick-volume as the mortar quantity — that is net, and joint fill adds about 5% on top.
- Entering 180 mm but using 240 mm counts — 535 versus 529 per m³ looks close until it is multiplied out.
- Forgetting to deduct openings — above 30% opening ratio the mortar figure overstates by more than 8%.
Calculate the actual number
Brick Wall CalculatorPick a wall thickness, enter length and height, deduct openings, and get brick count plus mortar volume.Mortar CalculatorChoose brickwork or plastering, enter area and thickness, and get mortar volume plus cement and sand quantities.AAC Block Quantity CalculatorBlock count, volume and adhesive from wall size and block format.
Other reference tables
FAQ
How many bricks per square metre in a 240 mm wall?
128 with standard bricks and 10 mm joints. A 120 mm wall takes 64, a 370 mm wall 192 and a 490 mm wall 256.
How much mortar per cubic metre of brickwork?
0.226 m³ net for a 240 mm wall, about 0.237 m³ with 5% loss. Thinner walls carry a higher mortar proportion.
How do I handle perforated bricks or AAC blocks?
Substitute the actual length, width and height, and keep the joint at 10 mm — or 3-5 mm when AAC is laid with thin-bed adhesive.
Results are estimating aids only and are not a design basis. Construction and final accounts must follow the drawings, the applicable standards and an approved method statement. Anything affecting structural safety, shoring or falsework must be checked by a suitably qualified engineer.