Mortar Calculator
Masonry mortar bags from a brick or block count.
How it works
Known brick or block count is divided by the finished unit yield of one bag. The allowance is then added and the result is rounded up to whole bags.
This calculator is for masonry mortar, not thinset or grout. Real yield changes with masonry-unit size, joint dimensions, joint profile, waste and workmanship, so the exact product data sheet should replace the preset.
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How the Mortar Calculator works
This masonry mortar calculator estimates whole bags from a known brick or concrete-block count and the finished unit yield of the selected mortar. It keeps yield editable because bag weight alone cannot tell you how many units a mix will lay.
Use finished product yield
Divide the masonry-unit count by the number of finished units one bag lays, add the job allowance, then round up to whole bags. The starting profiles use published planning yields of 35 standard bricks or 12 standard 8 in blocks from one 80 lb Type S mortar bag.
Copy the yield from the exact product data sheet whenever possible. Brick or block dimensions, bed and head joints, joint profile and workmanship all change coverage.
Masonry mortar is not thinset or grout
This page estimates mortar used to lay masonry units. Tile-setting mortar belongs in the thinset calculator, and joints between installed tile belong in the grout calculator.
If wall dimensions are known but unit count is not, start with the brick calculator or concrete block calculator, then carry the resulting count here when a different product yield needs to be tested.
FAQ
How many bricks will an 80 lb mortar bag lay? expand_more
The starting profile is 35 standard bricks per 80 lb bag, based on a published Type S mortar product yield. Replace it with the data for the selected brick, joint and mortar product.
How many 8 inch blocks per mortar bag? expand_more
The starting profile is 12 standard 8 in blocks per 80 lb bag. Actual yield changes with block and joint geometry and jobsite loss.
Why is waste applied to bags instead of units? expand_more
The allowance represents mortar lost during mixing, placement and tooling. The calculator increases the theoretical bag requirement and then rounds the purchase up.
Can I use this for thinset? expand_more
No. Thinset coverage is normally based on square footage and trowel notch rather than masonry-unit count.