Plan masonry faster with accurate head joint quantities for every course onsite. Adjust brick sizes, mix ratios, wastage, and download neat reports instantly here.
| Item | Example value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wall length | 6000 mm | Horizontal run of the wall. |
| Wall height | 2400 mm | From base to top course. |
| Brick (L×H×T) | 190×90×90 mm | Use actual on-site brick size. |
| Head joint thickness | 10 mm | Vertical joint between bricks. |
| Bed joint thickness | 10 mm | Horizontal joint between courses. |
| Mix ratio | 1:4 | Cement:sand by volume parts. |
| Wastage | 7% | Accounts for spill and handling. |
Brick module accounts for joint thickness:
Counts use the selected rounding method:
Head joint mortar volume:
Optional bed joint volume:
Gross mortar adds wastage: Vgross = Vnet × (1 + W/100).
A head joint is the vertical mortar joint between adjacent bricks or blocks. Along with bed joints, it provides load transfer, alignment, and sealing. Consistent head joints improve bond, reduce air leakage, and help control moisture paths in exposed masonry.
Typical workmanship targets keep joints uniform so units sit fully bedded and stresses distribute evenly. Oversized joints can shrink and crack; undersized joints may leave voids and reduce bond area. Good practice is to match joint thickness to unit tolerances and site conditions.
The calculator estimates mortar volume by multiplying the joint cross‑sectional area by the number and length of joints. For head joints, the cross‑section is wall thickness × head joint thickness. The joint count is driven by the number of units along wall length and the number of courses along wall height.
Field conditions cause losses from mixing, transport, and joint finishing. A waste factor (often 5–15%) is applied on calculated volume. You can also choose whether bed joints are included, which is useful when head joints are the main focus for production planning or material checks.
Mix ratios (cement : sand) are handled as parts. The calculator converts mortar volume into estimated cement and sand volumes by fractioning the total parts. If you purchase by weight or bags, convert cement volume to bags using your preferred density or bag yield from the supplier.
Always follow the project specification for mortar type, compressive strength, and exposure class. Joint finishing and curing influence durability as much as mix proportions. For severe exposure, confirm material selection and detailing (flashing, weeps, sealants) with the design team.
Example: Wall 6.0 m long × 3.0 m high, thickness 230 mm, brick 190×90 mm, head joint 10 mm, bed joint 10 mm, waste 8%, mix 1:4. The calculator returns estimated joint volumes, total mortar, and split quantities for cement and sand.
| Input | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wall size | 6.0 m × 3.0 m | Net dimensions |
| Unit size | 190 mm × 90 mm | Nominal brick face |
| Joint thickness | 10 mm | Head and bed |
| Waste | 8% | Site allowance |
| Mix | 1 : 4 | Cement : sand (parts) |
Use the mortar and material totals to plan batching, storage, and daily production. Compare outputs with historical consumption to refine waste and productivity assumptions. Re-run scenarios for different joint sizes, unit formats, and wall thicknesses to support estimating and procurement.
A head joint is the vertical mortar joint between neighboring masonry units. It ties units together, seals gaps, and contributes to bond and overall wall integrity.
Many projects target around 10 mm, but requirements vary by unit tolerances, specification, and workmanship. Always follow project documents and local standards.
Mortar volume depends on joint cross‑section area. Wall thickness multiplied by head joint thickness defines that area for each vertical joint segment.
Include bed joints when estimating total mortar for the wall. Exclude them if you only want head‑joint volume for audits, productivity checks, or targeted material control.
Start with 5–15% depending on crew skill, access, and weather. Review past site records and adjust after the first few days of production.
The split is proportional to mix parts and assumes ideal volume yield. Actual yield varies with moisture, bulking, additives, and batching method, so treat results as planning estimates.
Yes. Enter the unit length and height that match your block or brick face. The calculator scales joint count and mortar volume accordingly.
Accurate head joints mean stronger walls and savings always.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.