All free tools

Mortar Calculator

Mortar is the material most often under-ordered on a masonry job. Enter what you are laying and how much, and this returns the bag count and sand.

Your numbers

Result

Mortar bags
9
80 lb bags
Exact bag requirement
8.8bags
SandIf mixing from type N/S mix
4.4cubic ft
Sand
0.16cubic yards
WaterRoughly 4.5 gal per bag
39.6gallons
Total weight
704lb

How this is calculated

  • Bags = units ÷ units per bag, adjusted for joint width, then × (1 + waste).
  • A wider joint uses proportionally more mortar — half-inch joints run about 25% above a standard 3/8 in joint.

Before you order

  • Mortar type matters and is not interchangeable. Type N is the general above-grade choice; Type S is for below grade and where more strength is needed; Type M is for heavy load and paving.
  • Mixed mortar has a working life of roughly 90 minutes to 2.5 hours. Mix what the crew can lay, and re-tempering with extra water past that weakens it.
  • Never lay masonry below about 40°F without cold-weather protection — the mortar will not cure and the wall will fail.

Missing calls while you're on the job?

HeizerDesk answers your business phone 24/7, books the job on your calendar, and texts you the ones that can't wait. You can call it right now and talk to it yourself.

More free tools