Concrete Block Estimator
Get a complete material takeoff — blocks, mortar bags, sand, and optional grout fill — for any concrete block wall project.
Full Material Estimator
// Complete Material List
What's Included in This Estimate
This estimator generates a complete material takeoff for a concrete block wall, including all consumables you'll need to purchase before starting. Here's what each line item covers:
Concrete Blocks: Count based on 1.125 blocks per square foot of net wall area (after subtracting openings), plus your waste factor for cuts and breakage.
Mortar Bags: Type S mortar at approximately 28 blocks per 60lb bag. Type S is recommended for all exterior and below-grade masonry.
Sand: If mixing mortar from scratch (Portland cement + lime + sand), you'll need approximately 1.5 bags of sand per bag of mortar mix. If using pre-mixed mortar bags, you don't need separate sand — it's already included.
Grout Fill: Grout volume for filling block cores, required for structural walls and any wall with rebar. Uses 0.038 cubic yards per block for an 8-inch fully grouted block.
What's not included: Rebar, tie wire, block caps/coping, wall ties (for cavity walls), foundation/footing concrete, and labor. Use the cost calculator to add labor estimates.
Buying Blocks: Retail vs. Masonry Yard
Home Depot and Lowe's typically charge $2.50–$4.00 per standard 8×8×16 block. A masonry supply yard selling direct will often price blocks at $1.50–$2.50 each in full pallet quantities (typically 72–90 blocks per pallet). For any project over 200 blocks, calling a local masonry yard for a pallet price will save meaningful money. Delivery is usually available for a flat fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I estimate concrete blocks for a wall?Wall length × height − openings = net square feet. Multiply by 1.125 blocks per square foot. Add 5% waste. That's your block count. One 60lb mortar bag covers ~28 blocks.
- How much does a concrete block wall cost per square foot?Materials only run $3–$6 per square foot (blocks + mortar). Professionally installed: $15–$30 per square foot for standard walls; $25–$45 per square foot for grouted and reinforced retaining walls.
- How many blocks are on a pallet?Standard 8×8×16 blocks are typically palletized at 72–90 blocks per pallet depending on the supplier. A pallet of 80 blocks covers about 71 square feet of wall. Order in full pallets when possible — you'll get a better per-block price and avoid odd partial deliveries.