Who needs bricklaying services?
There are a range of things that bricklayers do and a large selection of projects they work on. A common misconception is that the only thing bricklayers do is build houses, which isn’t strictly true. Of course, laying bricks for houses is a massive part of the job for bricklayers but it isn’t all they specialise in.
In addition to building houses, bricklayers repair walls, install chimneys, refurbish decorative brickwork, and walkways and can sometimes create foundations using various types of blocks and cement.
If you have a project involving any of the above, you’ll likely need to hire a bricklayer.
How long does bricklaying take?
Bricklaying depends on the scope of the project, as well as the number of bricklayers working. For example, a small repair job might only take a day or two, whereas a new build can take weeks or even months.
As a general guide, it takes around 50 bricks to build 1 square metre of wall. This assumes standard-sized UK bricks (215mm length) and that the wall is single skin (one layer of bricks). When you factor in a double-skinned wall (two layers of bricks), the time it takes to lay bricks increases.
Other factors that affect the time it takes to lay bricks is the complexity of the build, for example how many angles or turns there are in a wall (which is also known as a bond). 4 straight walls will be much quicker to lay than 4 walls with lots of angles and turns (bonds). Additionally, the weather, location and skill of the bricklayer also have a dramatic effect on the duration of a project, as rain or snow can slow down or delay progress and things like scaffolding and working at height can also play a role in the duration of bricklaying projects.
Generally, skilled bricklayers calculate the duration of a project by the total amount of bricks needed and then estimate a “bricks per day” timeframe which can then be worked backwards to work out an hourly (or daily) figure. On average, most bricklayers can lay between 400-500 bricks per day or between 60 and 80 bricks an hour (based on 6.5 hours of solid work a day).
How much does bricklaying cost?
The cost of bricklaying is also based on a few different factors, including the size of the job, location and complexity.
As previously mentioned, the time it takes to lay bricks is the largest contributor to how much you’ll be charged as this directly impacts the labour costs involved. Other factors that impact the cost of a bricklayer are the type of bricks used, whether or not scaffolding is required and whether the walls are single-skin or double-skin.
On average in the UK, bricklayers charge ~£600-800 per 1,000 standard bricks with prices in London spiking approximately 30% higher.
Do bricklayers install foundations?
In short, it depends on the bricklayer or company you choose to use. Some bricklayers prefer to start laying bricks on a pre-laid foundation while other bricklayers lay foundation bricks for a concrete base to be poured into. You should always discuss the arrangements for foundations with the bricklaying company you choose to use.
Can I choose between different bricks?
Yes, most bricklayers will let you choose between different brick types.
Common Bricks
Common bricks are the cheapest and most popular bricks in the UK and are the red-coloured ones most houses are built with.
Facing Bricks
Depending on your project, you may choose to use facing bricks which enhance the visual appeal of brickwork. Facing bricks come in a range of colours, textures and materials – which are all factors that will inevitably determine the costs involved to you. High-quality, glazed bricks are generally the premium and most expensive tier of bricks, which if you have the budget, can add a fantastic finish to your project.
Handmade Bricks
Handmade bricks are also a speciality, expensive type of brick which can be handcrafted to match bricks of a certain style in a specific period and have a unique appearance. As the manufacturing process requires a specialist craftsman to prepare each brick individually, the cost of bricks per 1,000 will naturally be considerably more expensive than mass-produced common bricks.
Choose RR Limited
If you are looking for a reliable bricklayer in Cardiff, contact RR Limited for a free no-obligation quote.