How much mortar do I need?

For standard modular bricks with 3/8-inch joints, plan on roughly 7 bags (80 lb) of mortar mix per 1,000 bricks. For 8x8x16 concrete blocks, you need about 8.5 bags per 100 blocks.

What is the mortar mix ratio?

Pre-mixed mortar bags only need water. For site-mixed mortar, Type N uses 1 part cement to 1 part lime to 6 parts sand, while Type S uses 1 part cement to 0.5 parts lime to 4.5 parts sand.

How many bags of mortar per square foot?

For a standard brick wall, you need roughly 0.05 bags (80 lb) of mortar per square foot. For 8-inch concrete block walls, plan on about 0.09 bags per square foot of wall area.

What is the difference between Type N and Type S mortar?

Type N mortar (750 psi) is a general-purpose mix best for above-grade walls and interior projects. Type S mortar (1,800 psi) has higher bond strength and is recommended for below-grade work, retaining walls, and areas subject to lateral loads.

Mortar Calculator

Calculate bags of mortar mix, mortar volume, and sand needed for brick and block masonry. Supports standard brick, modular brick, 8-inch CMU, and 12-inch CMU with mortar types N, S, M, and O.

Wall Area (sq ft)

Brick / Block Type

Joint Thickness (inches)

Mortar Type

Mortar Bag Size

Type N: General purpose, above grade, moderate strength

Mortar Estimate

Mortar Requirements

Mortar Bags Needed

80 lb bags (Type N)

Mortar Volume

10.6 cu ft

total mortar needed

Sand Needed

7.9 cu ft

~0.40 tons

Masonry Units

Wall Area

200 sq ft

total face area

Bricks / Blocks Needed

1,311

Standard Brick

Coverage Rate

35.0 sq ft

per 80 lb bag at 0.375" joint

Did this help?

How to Use This Calculator

Enter the total wall area in square feet, then select your brick or block type, joint thickness, mortar type, and bag size. The calculator estimates the number of mortar bags needed based on industry-standard coverage rates, the total mortar volume, and sand requirements. Coverage rates adjust automatically based on joint thickness.

Formula Used

Bags (80 lb) = Wall Area / Coverage Rate. Coverage adjusts with joint thickness: standard brick ~35 sq ft/bag at 3/8" joint; 8" CMU ~12.5 sq ft/bag. Sand = ~75% of mortar volume. Mortar Volume = Units x (Horizontal Joint + Vertical Joint) per unit.

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Disclaimer

This calculator is for estimation purposes only. Results may vary based on local conditions, materials, and building codes. Always consult a licensed professional before making decisions based on these calculations. MyContractorTools is not responsible for any errors or omissions.