How to Calculate How Many Recycled Bricks You Need for Your Project (Without Losing Your Mind)
Let’s face it—math isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time. But when you’re knee-deep in a DIY project or planning a stunning retaining wall with recycled bricks, guessing your way through the numbers is a one-way ticket to ”Why did I run out of bricks halfway through?!” territory. Don’t worry, though. We’ve been there (more times than we’d like to admit), and today, we’re sharing the no-BS guide to calculating exactly how many second-hand bricks, sandstock bricks, or reclaimed bricks you’ll need. And hey, if you’re in Australia, we’ll even toss in a shameless plug for our mates at The Brick Pit—because why hunt for “recycled bricks near me” when they’ve got you covered?
Step 1: Measure Twice, Cry Once
Before you start daydreaming about that rustic brick edging or retaining wall, grab a tape measure. Trust us, eyeballing it won’t cut it unless you enjoy mid-project panic attacks.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Length x Width x Height: For walls, measure the total length, height, and thickness. For paving, focus on length and width.
- Convert to meters (because we’re in Australia, folks—no imperial units here!).
- Account for mortar gaps: Subtract 10mm between bricks if you’re using mortar.
Pro Tip: If math makes you sweat, use our ”Brick Calculator Cheat Sheet” below. We won’t judge.
The Brick Calculator Cheat Sheet (Because We’re Nice Like That)
Here’s a quick-reference table to simplify your life. These numbers assume standard red bricks (230mm x 110mm x 76mm) with 10mm mortar joints. Adjust if you’re using chunky paving bricks or slim brick edging.
| Project Type | Bricks per m² | Bricks per m³ |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Brick Wall | 48 | 550 |
| Double-Brick Wall | 96 | 1,100 |
| Paving (no mortar) | 40 | N/A |
| Retaining Wall | 55 | 600 |
Example: If your retaining wall is 5m long x 1m high x 0.23m thick:
- Calculate volume: 5 x 1 x 0.23 = 1.15m³
- Multiply by bricks per m³: 1.15 x 600 = 690 bricks.
- Add 10% for breakage or cuts: 690 + 69 = 759 bricks total.
Easy, right? Now, let’s talk about why old used bricks are worth the effort.
Why Recycled Bricks? (Besides Looking Cooler Than New Ones)
We get it—new bricks have that crisp, untouched vibe. But reclaimed bricks from The Brick Pit offer:
- Character: Weathering, subtle color variations, and that ”I’ve seen some things” charm.
- Sustainability: Reusing bricks = fewer in landfills. Win for your project, win for the planet.
- Cost savings: Second-hand bricks are often 30–50% cheaper than new. Cha-ching!
FYI: If you’re in Sydney, Perth, or Brisbane, The Brick Pit’s team can even help you estimate quantities. Because driving to the “nearest brick yard” blindly is so 2010.
”But Wait—What If I Mess Up?” (Spoiler: You Won’t)
Let’s tackle the three questions we hear daily:
1. Can I return extra bricks?
Depends on the supplier! At The Brick Pit, we’re happy to take back unused recycled bricks—just keep them clean and intact.
2. How do I dispose of broken bricks?
First, try repurposing them for brick edging or garden fill. If that fails, search “brick disposal near me” for local recycling centers.
3. What if I need more bricks mid-project?
This is why we add 10% to every order. But if you’re still short, call The Brick Pit—we’ll find the closest match to your batch.
Final Tip: Skip the Guesswork, Call the Pros
Look, we’re all for DIY grit. But if calculating brick quantities feels like deciphering ancient hieroglyphs, save yourself the headache. The Brick Pit’s team in Australia specializes in recycled bricks, sandstock bricks, and paving bricks, and we’re happy to crunch the numbers for you.
Why stress? We’ll measure, quote, and deliver—so you can focus on the fun part (like actually building stuff).
Ready to Start?
Whether you’re in Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, or somewhere in between, The Brick Pit’s got your back. Give us a buzz, and let’s turn that pile of old used bricks into something legendary. And hey, if you’re still nervous about the math, just remember: even Bob the Builder needed a calculator once in a while :).
[The Brick Pit]—Your Go-To for Recycled Bricks in Australia. Let’s Build Something Together!
