Masonry mortar bag estimator

Mortar Calculator

Estimate mortar volume, bag count, waste, and material cost from masonry unit count and mortar use per brick or block.

Units

Bricks or blocks Mortar per unit (ft³)Waste / joint loss (%)Bag yield (ft³)Cost per bag ($)

Mortar bags to buy

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Mortar volume

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Mortar per unit

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Estimated cost

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Mortar yield varies by masonry unit

Joint thickness, unit size, frog/core shape, waste, tuckpointing, and manufacturer yield can change bag counts. Use supplier yield when available.

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Mortar bag formula

Mortar volume = masonry units × mortar per unit × (1 + waste %)

Bags = mortar volume ÷ bag yield

Example

For 400 blocks at 0.018 ft³ of mortar per block, 15% waste, and 0.6 ft³ yield per bag, order about 14 bags.For 400 blocks at 0.0005 m³ of mortar per block, 15% waste, and 0.017 m³ yield per bag, order about 14 bags.

Mortar Calculator FAQ

How does this mortar calculator work?+

It multiplies measured job dimensions by the coverage, spacing, or package yield you enter, adds waste, then rounds the buy quantity up. The safest input is the mortar yield printed on the bag or supplier sheet.It multiplies measured job dimensions by the coverage, spacing, or package yield you enter, adds waste, then rounds the buy quantity up. The safest input is the mortar yield printed on the bag or supplier sheet.

Should I use the default waste value?+

Use the default for a quick planning estimate, then raise it for cuts, odd layouts, breakage, bad access, or product-specific loss.Use the default for a quick planning estimate, then raise it for cuts, odd layouts, breakage, bad access, or product-specific loss.

Is this a bid or code approval?+

No. It is a material planning calculator. Verify product data, local code, structural requirements, electrical requirements, and supplier packaging before ordering or building.No. It is a material planning calculator. Verify product data, local code, structural requirements, electrical requirements, and supplier packaging before ordering or building.