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Mortar Calculator

Calculate the number of 80 lb bags of pre-blended masonry mortar (Type N, Type S, or Type M), masonry sand tonnage, and mixing water required for laying brick, CMU block, and stone veneer.

Interactive Mortar Calculator

ENGINEERING SCHEMATIC
Type N / Type S Masonry Mortar Bed Joint
Volume (V) = Area × Depth 1 Cubic Yard = 27 Cubic Feet
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Pro Contractor Recommendation: One 80 lb bag of mortar lays approximately 30–35 standard 8x8x16 CMU blocks or 100–120 standard modular face bricks with 3/8" joints.
Masonry Project Details
Pre-Blended Mortar Bags Required (80 lb)
9 bags
Includes 10% standard jobsite spillage allowance
Mixed Wet Volume
6.8 cu ft
(0.25 cu yds mixed)
Masonry Sand (If Batching)
1.13 tons
Clean washed ASTM C144 masonry sand
Clean Mixing Water
41 gallons
Potable clean mixing water

ASTM C270 Mortar Types Explained

Remember the acronym M-a-S-o-N-w-O-r-k (every second letter designates decreasing compressive strength):

  • Type M (2,500 PSI): Highest compressive strength. Used for heavy structural masonry, foundation retaining walls, and below-grade loadbearing stone.
  • Type S (1,800 PSI): High flexural bond strength. Ideal for exterior masonry, severe weather exposure, and reinforced CMU walls.
  • Type N (750 PSI): Medium strength. The standard choice for above-grade residential exterior and interior brick walls and chimneys.