Cost to Build a Garden Wall

Want to know how much a brick wall costs to build?

In this guide, we look at garden wall prices of different heights, lengths and thicknesses, laying garden wall foundations, and the labour cost of hiring a bricklayer to build a wall.

On average you can expect to pay around £1,000 for a brick wall to be built.

Already know what type of brick wall you want in your garden?

MyJobQuote can connect you with wall builders near you in just a few clicks. Simply enter some brief project details, and get ready to receive free, no-obligation quotes.

But, if you'd like to know more about building a garden wall first, carry on reading below...

Garden Wall Cost Calculator

How Much Does a Brick Wall Cost?

A small 5m x 1.2m wall can cost as little as £530 if it is made out of machine-made bricks. The same size wall can cost as much as £1,100 if made from handmade or reclaimed bricks.

Several factors affect how much it will cost to build a brick wall in your garden. The two main factors are:

• the size of the wall
• the type of bricks you choose.

You can choose to have a thicker wall made. Walls with two skins of bricks will cost twice as much as a wall of the same size with a single skin of bricks. Thicker or larger walls require more materials, which increases the overall cost.

On average you can expect to pay around £70 to £120 per m² of garden brick wall.

The following gives you some idea of the total cost for different sizes of walls. There will be some variance based on where you live and the type of team you hire.

Size

For comparison, these are the costs for different sizes of wall, all made with machine-made bricks:

Brick

For comparison, these are the costs for building the same size wall in different bricks. This is for a 5m x 1.2m single skin wall:

Building a Brick Wall Labour Costs and Timescales

Depending on who you hire, you might be quoted for the wall or for the time of the team.

Size of Wall

This will give you an idea of the labour costs and timeframes for different sizes of garden wall:

Bricklayer Labour Costs

This will give you an idea of the daily rates for the different workers that might be on site:

Building a Brick Wall (Supply Only Costs)

There are a few factors to consider when you are working out the costs of the materials for your wall, although the cost of individual bricks can fluctuate depending on the supplier and quality of the product.

Bricks

Other Materials

When you are building a wall, you will need to buy the ingredients for the mortar and the foundations as well. The following gives you an idea of the costs of these required to build a 5m by 1.2m double-skin garden wall:

Additional Bricklaying Costs

Once you've had your new brick wall built, you may want to spruce up the rest of your home's exterior. Here are a few examples of what you can consider:

Garden Waste Removal

Garden waste removal can be a good first step in preparing your garden for any work, like building a garden wall. It could save you from paying the higher rate of the bricklayers to clear the space they need. The average cost for clearing a garden is £200.

Garden Wall Gate

If you need a gate in your wall, you will need to factor in the cost to buy and fit the gate. A new garden gate costs between £80 and £150, it will cost an extra £150 to £200 to hire someone to install it.

Build a Garden Shed

While you are laying the foundations for your wall, it might be a good time to also lay them for a new shed. Building a garden shed costs on average £700, and can be a welcome solution for homeowners looking for storage solutions.

Hiring a Gardener

If you are putting money into building a new wall in your garden, then this might be the time to invest in a garden to maintain your garden as well.

Maintenance gardener costs are around £200 per visit. If you're looking for grass mowing costs, this typically costs around £25 per hour.

Factors That Impact Garden Wall Costs

There are a few main factors that can affect the cost of brick walls. So, you should consider these when you are working out your budget.

Size of Wall

The size of the wall is going to have a big impact on the cost. You will need to pay for the bricks to build the wall as well as the time it takes to build it.

If you need to fix your budget, you could limit the height of the wall as this will reduce the cost.

Type of Bricks

Reclaimed bricks can work out as a cost-effective option if sourced locally or purchased in bulk, although there is a chance this may not be the case if you're searching for something specific - especially if any cleaning and sorting is required before use.

Alternatively, modern bricks are often cheaper and more readily available. Plus they can be easier to match if you need to repair part of your brick wall with like-for-like brickwork.

Extensive Groundwork

If the ground in which your foundations need to be laid is hard to dig. For example, if there are a lot of rocks or tree roots, the cost will increase.

You can work around this by getting the groundwork done before the bricklayer comes to the site. Costs to remove a tree stump are around £225, while full tree removal costs around £500 depending on the size of the tree and ease of access.

Completing these jobs beforehand can help to avoid delays in your bricklayer's schedule, helping to keep your project on track.

Thickness

Garden walls are typically either half a brick or a full brick thick. This refers to the number of brick layers used: a single layer of bricks is classed as half a brick thick, while two layers of bricks is often referred to as "two-skins" in order to make a wall the thickness of a full brick. Keep in mind that a wall with two layers of bricks will cost considerably more than a single layer.

Location

If the wall is located in a hard-to-reach area, expect to pay a premium for getting the bricks to the site.

What's Involved in Building a Garden Brick Wall?

In principle building a brick garden wall isn't an overly complicated process - but there are some tricky parts whereby seeking the help of a professional is highly recommended.

Choosing to go the DIY route will save you in labour fees, although you may need to pay for any equipment. Not only that, but it can become a timely process to do by yourself (whereas a professional bricklayer can lay around 300 to 500 bricks per day).

As such, it's a good idea to find several local bricklayers in order to compare prices. With MyJobQuote we can help provide quotes from bricklayers near you without any obligation to go ahead with the work.

Here's a breakdown of the complete process:

Before the Job Starts

• Preparing the Site — Clear any bushes, weeds and debris, while ensuring the bricklayer has plenty of space to work. This can be done in advance to help save time.
• Digging a Trench — Preparing the foundations for the brick wall is a vital step, a trench of around 35cm to 50cm deep (depending on the height of the wall) is then filled with 15cm to 20cm of concrete.

During the Job

• Mixing the Mortar — Next the bricklayer will create a mortar mix using a ratio of 1:5 cement to sand, adding a plasticiser if needed. Using a cement mixer it's usual practice to only make enough for two hours work at a time.
• Laying the Bricks — Spreading a layer of mortar and positioning the bricks carefully, they are then tapped down and any excess mortar removed to keep each row of bricks level, gradually building up the wall to its designated height.

After the Job

• Finishing the Wall — The wall is then completed with capping bricks. These protect the wall from rain and weather damage, helping it last longer while maintaining a neat appearance.
• Waste Removal — Lastly, any debris such as excess bricks or mortar should be disposed of responsibly and the site tidied up in general. The wall should then be left to dry, allowing up to 48 hours until the mortar begins to set.

Types of a Brick for a Garden Brick Wall

Machine Made Brick Wall Cost

There are a few different ways to make bricks, and the methods produce different final looks.

For a smoother finish, you should choose an extruded or wire-cut brick. For a brick with some texture, you should choose either soft mud bricks or water-struck bricks. The average cost of bricks is £250 to £400 per thousand bricks.

Pros

• ✔ Cheap brick for garden walls
• ✔ Consistent look
• ✔ High quality

Cons

• ✖ Comes in standard sizes only

Handmade Brick Wall Cost

These bricks are a little more varied in their appearance. They give a more traditional final look to the wall.

Because they are made by hand, you can get them made in a wider range of sizes and shapes to suit your project. The average price of bricks is £600 to £1,600 per thousand bricks.

Pros

• ✔ Traditional appearance
• ✔ Variety in sizing
• ✔ High quality

Cons

• ✖ High cost

Reclaimed Brick Wall Cost

Reclaimed bricks can be found from reclamation yards, as they are bricks rescued from buildings that have been pulled down. When buying these bricks, you should buy more than you need as you are likely to have a higher rate of wastage than with new bricks.

The average cost of these bricks is £480 to £1,500 per thousand bricks.

Pros

• ✔ Bricks are already weathered, so the appearance won't change over time
• ✔ You can get bricks to match your home or local area

Cons

• ✖ High rate of wastage
• ✖ Limited stock

How Many Bricks Do I Need?

Calculating the number of bricks you need is quite straightforward if you are using standard-sized bricks.

To do this, you calculate the number of m² of brick you need - the length of the wall multiplied by the height of the wall. You then multiply this number by 60, which gives you the number of bricks for a half-brick thickness wall. For a full brick-thickness wall, you'll just need to double the number.

Finally, you add 10% for wastage. This allows for some bricks to be broken or damaged. It is better to have a few bricks left over instead of having to buy more bricks in small numbers, as this works out as the cheaper option.

For example, you want to build a 2m high wall that is 10m long. The m² of brick is 20m², so you need 1,200 bricks. You then need to add 120 for wastage, and you should buy a total of 1,320 bricks to build a wall that is 2m x 10m.

Brick Standards

Brick standards are the expectations that all bricks should meet before they are used in construction. It ensures that any construction made from these bricks will be safe and able to carry out its intended purpose.

These standards are laid out by NHBC (National House Building Council) and are supported by the BDA (Brick Development Association). These two associations basically ensure that all bricks bought in the UK are strong and reliable.

The Standards

There are two essential requirements relating to bricks used to build a garden brick wall.

Firstly, the bricks should be able to support their intended loads, which for a regular garden wall a minimum strength of 9N/mm² is fairly standard for compressive strength, although higher grades may be required for structural or retaining walls.

Secondly, the bricks should have appropriate resistance to freeze-thaw cycles and sulfate attack. This means that bricks that will be exposed to the elements should be able to tolerate them.

Testing

Several tests are carried out on batches of bricks to ensure that they meet the standards.

Absorption

Bricks are left submerged in water. Their weight after is compared to their weight before, and the brick should increase by no more than 10% in weight to pass.

Compressive Strength

Bricks are crushed. The force applied before they begin to break is their strength. This should be more than 9N/mm².

Hardness

Bricks should be hard. They should be able to resist scratching by sharp tools. They should also be able to remain solid when struck against each other.

Homogeneity

A brick from the batch will be broken. The inside should be even in colour and texture. There should be no lumps.

Efflorescence Test

High-quality bricks should not contain any soluble salts. If they are present, they can cause the brick to decay and form a dusty white coating. To test for the presence of soluble salts, the brick is placed in water for 24 hours and then allowed to dry. If there are no white or grey deposits on the surface of the brick, it is good to use.

What Are the Benefits of a Garden Brick Wall?

Here are some benefits of building a brick garden wall:

• Privacy — Brick walls offer excellent privacy, unlike fence panels you can see through. A taller wall also clearly marks your boundary and signals a private space.
• Sound Barrier — A brick wall can help reduce noise from nearby roads or neighbours. While it won’t block sound entirely, its size and thickness can make a noticeable difference.
• Provide a Wind Break — A good quality wall will stop the wind from blowing through your garden, making it more sheltered and comfortable to spend time in.
• Security — A high, solid wall is a good deterrent to thieves. It provides privacy and prevents potential intruders from looking for ways into your home.
• Hardwearing — A brick wall is extremely durable. It won’t blow over, rot, or be easily damaged by animals. It will last much longer than most alternative boundary options.
• Aesthetics — Brick walls offer a classic, tidy look that suits most UK properties. They provide an attractive and timeless way to define your garden boundaries.
• Children/Pet Safety — A brick wall is a sturdy and effective barrier, keeping children and pets safely contained within your garden and preventing escapes.

Planning Permission for a Garden Brick Wall

If you are building a garden wall over 2m high (or more than 1m high when next to a main road or public footpath) then you will need to apply for planning permission. If the specifications are lower then you won't need any permission to build the wall.

There are, however, additional restrictions if your building within the grounds of a listed building or you live in a conservation area. In which case it is always best to check with your local authority before starting work.

Building Regulations for a Garden Brick Wall

In most cases, a freestanding garden brick wall in the UK isn't legally required to meet any specific building regulations.

However, the wall must still be structurally sound and supported correctly. The exceptions being if a garden wall retains soil, supports a structure, or is adjacent to a public road or walkway - in this instance, approval may be required from your local council.

Typically, a single-brick-thick wall can safely reach around 1.2m, a 1.5 brick-thick wall about 1.5m, and a two-brick-thick wall up to 2m. If you are to go above these recommended heights, then consider reinforcement such as additional posts, steel bars or a stronger foundation.

Alternatives to Garden Brick Wall

A brick wall can be a good choice if you are using it to hold earth. However, in many situations, it is not the only choice.

Here are some alternatives to consider.

Garden Fence

Garden fences can be a more versatile option if there is no need for structural integrity. They can be more easily and cheaply built and come in a range of designs. The average garden fence cost for a 10m fence is £550 to £1,000 depending on the height of the fence.

Pros

• ✔ Can be painted
• ✔ Range of designs
• ✔ No planning permission for up to 2m high

Cons

• ✖ Require maintenance
• ✖ Limited lifespan

Hedge/Bush Divider

Hedges can provide a natural barrier and method to divide a space into sections. They look appealing and provide homes for wildlife. The average cost of a hedge is £150 per metre for a full-grown hedge, and £15 to £70 per metre for young rooted hedge sections that will grow in.

Pros

• ✔ Cheap option
• ✔ Aesthetically appealing
• ✔ Wildlife-friendly

Cons

• ✖ Low security
• ✖ Require maintenance
• ✖ Takes time to grow in

Natural Stone Wall

These are walls built using shaped natural stone ‘bricks’. You can choose from a range of materials, such as sandstone or traditional tumbled stone walling. The average cost is £150 to £300 per m².

Pros

• ✔ Striking look
• ✔ More colour options

Cons

• ✖ High cost

Concrete Wall

You can use concrete blocks and build them like a traditional wall. These will cost around £75 to £85 per m².

Pros

• ✔ Durable
• ✔ Can be used as a retaining wall

Cons

• ✖ Not aesthetically pleasing

Drystone Wall

A drystone wall is built using no mortar, giving a very eye-catching and rustic look. The average cost for this sort of wall is £100 to £150 per m².

Pros

• ✔ Attractive finish

Cons

• ✖ Requires maintenance

Once your wall is in place, you might want to add a gate. Here's what you need to know:

How to Hang a Gate

Hold the gate in position and mark where the hinges will be attached. Make sure the marks are fully centred on the bricks, not the mortar. Set the gate aside, then drill and secure the hinges to the wall using masonry screws.

Close the gate and position the latch side. Again, ensure the mounting points are centred on the bricks. Mark the positions, then drill and fix the latch in place.

The gate and fixings should cost £80 to £150, depending on style and size.

Hiring Someone

If you don’t have the equipment to hand, then it might be a good idea to hire someone to hang the gate for you. You can expect to pay £150 to £200 depending on where you live.

Garden Wall Repair Costs

It's normal for brick walls to encounter some wear and tear over the years. Let's look at some common repair jobs and their costs:

Repointing Costs

The cost of repointing can range widely in line with the area requiring work, spanning £600 to £7,250. It's important to not ignore when your walls have loose mortar as it can affect the wall's stability, acting as a hazard if not dealt with promptly.

Treating Rising Damp Costs

Rising damp can be an issue with brick walls that haven't been constructed with the proper damp proofing in place, although many modern brick walls include DPC (damp-proof course).

Rising damp treatment costs anywhere from £200 to £5,000 depending on the extent of the damp issue.

Bricklayer or Labourer Costs

When hiring an experienced bricklayer, expect labour fees for each tradesmen of around £150 to £200 per day, although this can reach up to £180 or more in certain regions such as London and the South East. If you ask a general labourer to carry out the work, they are likely to charge less but the job may not be completed to the same standard.

How long you'll need your contractors on site will depend on the extent of the repair work required. However, even if it's a small repair, your bricklayer may charge a minimum fee - so it can be cost-effective to repair small patches yourself as a DIY project if you are capable.

Removing a Garden Brick Wall

Removing a brick wall can open up your garden. If you replace your front garden wall with a fence, it can either provide more privacy if you choose a tall fence, or it can make the front of your house seem larger by using a picket fence.

How to Remove A Brick Wall

Removing a brick wall is hard work and can be dangerous if not done carefully. You should make sure to have appropriate safety gear such as goggles and ear defenders.

You start by using a concrete blade on a power saw to make cuts into the mortar of the wall. They should be about 2.5cm deep at 30cm intervals along the wall.

Then swing a sledgehammer to break the wall. You want to hit at the point you cut. Make sure there is no one near you during this step. Continue to hit the wall until it begins to break apart. You can use a hammer and chisel to work on parts of the wall that are hard to hit with a sledgehammer.

You can then remove the brick.

Cost to Hire Someone

Hiring someone to help remove a brick wall is a good idea if you are not up to the physically demanding job. For a simple brick wall in your garden, you can expect to pay £200 to £250 to have someone take it down.

Additional Costs

If the brick wall has a footing that needs to be removed, then the costs will be much higher. The footing will have to be removed using a jackhammer. The concrete will then need to be disposed of, which will have a cost depending on your local council.

To hire a jackhammer and dispose of the concrete yourself could cost £150 to £200. It takes a lot of time. To hire someone to do this work could cost over £1,000.

Selling the Bricks

If the bricks are still in good condition after the wall comes down, it is possible to sell them. Especially if they are an unusual colour or pattern. You may be able to sell them to a local reclamation yard.

Otherwise, you can sell them privately through an advert or a site like eBay. It can take a while to find a buyer, but there will be one out there.

Checklist: Hiring a Garden Brick Wall Specialist in the UK

When you are hiring someone to build a wall, you are usually hiring at least one bricklayer and a labourer to help them get the job done more efficiently. There are, however, certain things to look out for during the hiring process:

• Do they have any qualifications? Some bricklayers will have learnt their skills on job sites or through an apprenticeship. Otherwise, they may have completed a City and Guilds qualification or a construction qualification.
• Are they a member of a trade body? Check if they’re a member of organisations such as the Federation of Master Builders or similar professional associations. Membership shows commitment to quality standards and gives you added peace of mind.
• Do they have insurance? Make sure your bricklayer has valid public liability insurance. This protects you and your property in case of accidental damage or injury during the work.
• Can they show examples of their work? Ask to see photos or visit examples of garden walls they’ve built previously. This helps you assess their workmanship and the end result.
• Will they demolish an old wall? If you're replacing an existing wall, it's best to check if you need to have the old one removed first or if this is included within your bricklayers' quote.
• Do they have positive reviews? As well as asking friends and family for recommendations, check websites such as MyJobQuote for feedback from their most recent customers.
• Have you received multiple quotes? Before deciding who to hire, it is common practice to ask for at least three separate quotes first. Let MyJobQuote help find reliable bricklayers in your area.

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