Calculate mortar volume for planters, paths, and walls. Switch units, include waste, and compare bags. Export results to share with crews and suppliers quickly.
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| Timestamp | Units | Mode | Net area | Waste % | Volume (m³) | Volume (L) | Volume (ft³) | Bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No calculations yet. Run one above to populate this table. | ||||||||
Sample scenarios for garden planters and edging. Replace values with your project dimensions.
| Scenario | Mode | Inputs | Thickness | Waste | Estimated volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brick planter face | Wall | Length 3.0 m, Height 0.6 m | 10 mm | 8% | 0.0194 m³ (19.4 L) |
| Stone edging bed | Area | Area 4.0 m² | 12 mm | 10% | 0.0528 m³ (52.8 L) |
| Low garden wall | Wall | Length 18 ft, Height 2 ft | 0.5 in | 12% | 1.68 ft³ (0.0476 m³) |
The calculator estimates mortar as a simple volume:
Bag counts use your provided bag yield: Bags = Total volume ÷ Yield per bag.
Accurate mortar estimating reduces delays, waste, and mismatch between batches. Measure the surface receiving mortar, choose wall mode for length and height, or area mode for flat beds. Subtract openings like vents, inset planters, or large gaps. Record dimensions from the finished face, not the block size, to better reflect real coverage. For stepped beds, calculate each section separately, then sum totals.
Thickness drives consumption more than most people expect. A change from 10 mm to 12 mm increases volume by 20% at the same area. For bedding under stone or pavers, base thickness on your screed guides or typical trowel build. For pointing, base it on average joint width and depth, and keep application consistent across sections. If thickness varies for leveling, use an average based on several spot checks.
Waste factors usually range from 5–15%. Tight work with controlled mixing and clean substrates can stay near 5–8%. Irregular stone, hot weather, wind, or repeated re-tempering can increase loss. Use a higher allowance when you expect extra trimming, frequent tool cleaning, or interruptions that force partial batches to be discarded. Pre-damping porous masonry can improve adhesion and reduce rapid water loss.
Bag yield varies by product and water content, so rely on packaging data when available. Enter yield per bag to estimate bags, then round up to avoid running short. The density field provides a weight estimate for lifting and transport, useful when staging materials in a garden with limited access. Weight estimates also help plan wheelbarrow trips and lifting limits.
Consistent batches improve color and workability, especially on visible planter faces and edging. Use the mix ratio option to split total volume into cement and sand parts for purchasing bulk materials. This allocation is parts-based and not a structural design mix. Follow manufacturer guidance for water, additives, curing time, and temperature limits for outdoor durability.
Use your planned joint or bed thickness. Common values are 8–12 mm for brickwork joints and around 10–15 mm for bedding, but verify your method and materials.
Waste accounts for spill, tool loss, uneven joints, and leftover mortar that cannot be used. A realistic allowance reduces the risk of running short mid-job.
Measure the areas that will not receive mortar, such as vents, large gaps, or inset planters. Enter the total opening area, and the calculator subtracts it from the base area.
No. Yield depends on the formulation and water content. Use the yield printed on the bag or technical sheet, then enter it to estimate bag count accurately.
No. It only splits the total volume by parts to help plan cement and sand quantities. Follow local practice and manufacturer guidance for strength and durability.
Usually yes. Rounding up avoids delays from shortage and covers small measurement errors. Unopened bags can often be stored for later work if kept dry.
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.