If you're planning a masonry project—whether it's a garden wall, a new building facade, or internal blockwork—material costs can easily run away from your budget without a clear breakdown. Brick and block prices fluctuate based on quality, source, and current market demand, so knowing what to expect upfront saves time and money. This guide walks you through typical material costs, where to source them, and how to get accurate quotes for your specific project.
Material Types & Price Ranges
Bricks and blocks come in several varieties, each with different price points. Standard clay bricks typically cost £0.30–£0.60 per unit in the UK, though decorative or reclaimed bricks can reach £1.00–£3.00+ each. Concrete blocks, which are faster to lay and often used for internal walls or structural backing, generally run £0.40–£0.80 per block depending on thickness and density.
Engineering bricks—designed for load-bearing or damp-prone areas—sit at the premium end, around £0.80–£1.50 per brick. If you're sourcing specialist bricks like thin brick slips for cladding or natural stone, expect significantly higher costs, sometimes £2.00–£5.00+ per unit.
Mortar and adhesives make up a secondary material cost. A standard bag of mortar (typically 20kg) costs £4–£8, and you'll need roughly one bag per 60–70 bricks, depending on joint thickness. Pre-mixed mortar or bagged adhesive for block laying adds convenience but costs slightly more than mixing your own.
Calculating Total Material Quantity
Before requesting quotes, determine your actual brick or block requirement. The number you need depends on wall length, height, and whether you're building single-skin or cavity walls.
A rough guide:
- Standard clay brick (215 × 102 × 65mm): approximately 60 bricks per square metre
- Concrete block (440 × 215mm, 100mm thick): approximately 10 blocks per square metre
- Cavity wall construction: multiply single-skin quantities by 1.8–2.0 to account for both leaves
Measure your wall area (length × height), then use these ratios to estimate material volume. Add 5–10% waste for breakage and cutting—this is standard practice and often overlooked by first-time buyers.
Where To Source & Compare Prices
Local builders' merchants remain the most straightforward option for smaller projects. They typically stock standard bricks and blocks, offer delivery (often £30–£100 depending on distance and load), and provide technical advice. Prices vary between merchants, so phoning three or four local suppliers with your exact specifications takes 30 minutes and can reveal savings of 10–15%.
Larger national suppliers like Travis Perkins, Jewson, or regional chains often have competitive bulk pricing if you're ordering over 1,000 units. Online platforms increasingly offer material delivery, though inspect samples first—colour and texture variations are common and only visible in person.
For specialist bricks or salvaged stock, specialist reclaimed-brick merchants command premium prices but guarantee unique aesthetic results. Request sample pallets before committing to large orders.
Getting Accurate Quotes
Don't settle for rough estimates. Provide suppliers with:
- Exact brick or block type and specification
- Total quantity (with 5–10% waste included)
- Required delivery date and location
- Any special requirements (e.g., frost-resistant bricks for exposed locations)
- Whether you need mortar, sand, or additives included
Reputable suppliers will quote materials separately from labour. If a quote bundles everything, ask for an itemised breakdown so you understand what you're paying for.
Mercoly helps you compare and find trusted brick and block laying providers in one place, making it easier to get multiple quotes quickly and benchmark pricing across your area.
Timing & Delivery Considerations
Standard materials typically arrive within 3–7 days of order. Peak building season (spring–summer) can stretch this to 2–3 weeks, especially for specialist products. If your project is time-sensitive, confirm delivery schedules early.
Storage on-site matters too. Bricks should remain palletised and weatherproofed; exposed bricks absorb moisture and may develop efflorescence (white salt staining). Allocate space for 1–2 pallets per 1,000 bricks delivered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to account for waste when ordering bricks? Yes—order 5–10% above your calculated requirement to cover breakage, cutting, and poor units; standard practice across all suppliers.
Q: What's the difference between facing bricks and common bricks? Facing bricks are finished to a consistent colour and texture for visible walls, costing 30–50% more; common bricks have minor cosmetic faults and suit internal or hidden work.
Q: Can I negotiate prices on bulk orders? Absolutely—most merchants offer 5–15% discounts on orders over 5,000 units; always ask.
Start by measuring your wall area, contact three local suppliers, and request itemised quotes within 48 hours to lock in accurate pricing for your project.