Brick Wall Installation Costs?
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
National Cost
- Average Cost: $5,000
- Typical Cost Range: $3,500–$7,000
- Minimum Cost: $2,000
- Maximum Cost: $9,000
Costs by Brick Type
- Brick Veneer:
- Material Cost: $3–$10 per sq. ft.
- Offers a brick appearance without the cost of solid brick.
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Labor costs lower than solid bricks.
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Hollow Bricks:
- Material Cost: $15–$30 per sq. ft.
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Lightweight with open centers; easier installation reduces labor.
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Real Brick:
- Material Cost: $3–$8 per sq. ft.
- Strong and supportive, ideal for load-bearing walls.
- Labor costs are higher than brick veneer.
Costs by Wall Type
- Privacy Wall:
- Cost: $35–$45 per sq. ft.
- Linear Foot Cost: $200–$360
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Labor-intensive for full privacy.
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Brick Fence:
- Cost: $15–$40 per sq. ft.
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Usually lower and thinner than privacy walls.
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Garden Wall:
- Cost: $10–$35 per sq. ft.
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Uses natural clay bricks ($25–$35) or concrete blocks ($10–$20).
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Brick Columns:
- Cost Per Column: $500–$7,000
- Ornamental: $500–$2,000
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Structural: $2,000–$7,000
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Retaining Wall:
- Cost: $20–$25 per sq. ft.
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Used for soil support on slopes.
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Brick Facades (Exterior & Interior):
- Cost: $10–$60 per sq. ft.
- Covers existing walls for aesthetic improvement.
Factors Affecting Cost
- Wall Size:
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Larger walls increase both material and labor costs.
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Labor:
- Masons charge $70–$110 per hour.
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Complex designs raise the price per sq. ft.
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Site Prep:
- Clearing/leveling land: $500–$5,000
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Footing installation: $15–$55 per linear foot.
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Permits:
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Usually $100–$500, required for exterior walls.
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Additional Features:
- Waterproofing: $2–$10 per sq. ft.
- Painting: $2–$5 per sq. ft.
- Staining: $1–$4 per sq. ft.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY:
- Save $2,500+ in labor costs.
- Suitable for small decorative walls or brick veneers.
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Requires tools, time, and physical effort.
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Hire a Pro:
- Recommended for structural or large walls, or those requiring footings.
- Ensures proper construction and compliance with local codes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brick Walls
- How long does it take to build a brick wall?
- Construction time varies from 1–2 days to several weeks.
- Influencing factors include the size, type, and complexity of the wall and the condition of the site.
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Hiring a professional can help streamline the process.
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How high can I build a brick wall?
- A freestanding wall (1 brick thick): 6–8 feet high.
- Walls taller than 8 feet require a thickness of 2 bricks and may need a footing for stability.
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Local regulations may limit wall height; check with your area's code enforcers.
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Does a brick wall add value to a home?
- Yes, brick walls enhance a home's aesthetic appeal and provide privacy and security.
- They can increase resale value, especially when aligned with neighborhood designs.
How to Save on Brick Wall Costs
- DIY Part or All of the Work: Save on labor costs, which can average $2,500+.
- Use Reclaimed Bricks: Eco-friendly and cost-effective.
- Simplify the Design: Avoid intricate ornamentation for lower expenses.
- Compare Quotes: Obtain multiple contractor estimates for the best price.
- Adjust Wall Height: Opt for the minimum height required.
- Standard Materials: Use regular-sized bricks instead of custom options.
- Choose Veneer Over Real Brick: Save on material and labor costs while retaining the brick aesthetic.
