Brick fencing varies in complexity with design, materials, size and labour. The average cost for a simple brick fence can cost $2,000 or higher.
Bricklayers in some areas of the country may charge by the brick or by the hour. Still, others figure a brick fence cost per metre. Here is an example of rates per hour in different areas of Australia.
City | Average Cost |
Sydney | $70 – $110 |
Melbourne | $80 – $100 |
Brisbane | $80 – $100 |
Canberra | $35 – $60 |
Perth | $80 – $100 |
Adelaide | $60 – $80 |
Durability – Bricks can withstand years of inclement weather when the proper maintenance is done. They also have to be installed correctly with a qualified brick mason.
Protection – Besides the weather, intruders will find it virtually impossible to bust through a brick wall.
Environmentally friendly – Every component of bricks is a naturally formed material. There are no chemicals or poisonous additives that are needed to build a brick fence.
Aesthetic – Brick fences have been a sign of prominence for thousands of years. The mere sight of a brick fence brings a fresh and pleasing display of a property.
Not all brick fences are alike. The following variations can have an impact on a brick fence price.
Size of the Project
The size of the project will have a considerable impact on the cost to build a brick wall fence. Linear feet, the height of the fence and allowing for architectural roadblocks can increase the value significantly.
Materials Used
Standard clay bricks are less expensive than modular concrete bricks. It all has to do with the style you wish to present. Common bricks run anywhere from $600 to $850. The facing bricks (modular) can cost $650 to $1,200 per 1,000. The mortar is also required that runs another $70 to $150 per 1,000 standard bricks.
Quick tip on mortar: White vs Off white
As one might imagine, the choice between white and off-white mortar for brick fencing can significantly impact the fence’s overall aesthetic. In general, white mortar tends to create a brighter, cleaner look that can be especially effective in bright sunlight. On the other hand, off-white mortar can add a more rustic, earthy feel that can add a touch of warmth and character to a brick fence. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on the overall design aesthetic of the surrounding area.
Removal or Replacement Bricks
Removing old brick can be a challenge and expensive. Special equipment is required to tear down and clear out broken pieces. The footings may need to be built back up, adding additional charges.
Soil Type
Not all soil types are perfect for setting brick. If you have clay soil or wet soil, you may want to re-evaluate your desire for a brick wall. Several factors need to be addressed. Bearing capacity, stress parameters and friction angle all play a significant part in how solid your brick wall will stay. Before getting a cost to build a brick wall fence, hire to have a geotechnical report done that will show on-site soils, expansive soils, poor chemical properties and groundwater conditions.
Many brick fences involve other materials, like iron, metal or wood. These types of fences will always cost more due to the complexity of the project.
Brick and Iron
A brick fence with wrought iron entrance doors can make quite an impression. This combination can also be quite expensive. Consider it two separate projects with the brick mason taking the lead. A contractor will then work with the brick mason to combine the two materials perfectly. Installing wrought iron can run over $7,000 for a security gate on a brick wall. A brick and iron fence cost without a gate is much cheaper due to not needing any type of retainer in place.
Brick and Metal
Brick and metal work splendidly together for an aesthetic look. For example, a brick garden wall cost may run $300 to $750 more with a splash of ornate metal. While a brick and metal fence cost can run more, the effects can be stunning.
Brick and Wood
Wooden inserts within brick posts add a refined look to a property. The brick and wood fence cost will be far cheaper than all brick due to the decrease in wood materials.
Brick and Render
Rendering a brick wall will expand the life by 10 to 20 years, but the cost is also quite high. It is up to the individual if spending an extra $25 to $60 per m2 is worth the results. Many feel that the render brick wall cost is worth the increased insulation, aesthetics and increased value of a home.
Brick Pillars
Brick pillars are elegant. A brick pillar fence cost can cost more due to the detail and extras that are needed. Some have a light fixture on top, and others are set higher than the actual fence with decorative details.
Different types of brick can affect the cost to build a brick wall.
Type | Average Cost |
Concrete | $1 – $3 each |
Clay | $0.50 – $2.50 each |
Sand lime | Depends on the availability of clay. |
Engineered | $0.55 – $1.75 each |
Retaining walls are purposeful and attractive. The cost of materials alone can run $15 to $30 per square metre. They are frequently used in landscaping to give a tiered look to plants.
Veneer Walls
The cost of brick veneer wall on the exterior of a home runs anywhere from $10 to $50 per hour, including labour. This is because no masonry has to be done.
Garden Walls
Expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 to build a single skin garden wall. Usually, clay brick is the material, and the assistance of a brick mason is necessary to get the job done right.
Interior Brick Walls
Interior brick wall cost does not have to be as painful as an exterior job. Unless it is going to be used in conjunction with a load-bearing wall, there will be little weight limitations.
Brick masons have a highly skilled job. The cost to build a brick fence can vary by the type of brick used and the reputation of the brick mason. Do your homework and only select bricklayers that have a Certificate 111 or 1V in construction. While there are no requirements for the industry in Australia, the best choices will have gained as much knowledge as possible.
How to Create an Accurate Estimate
Know what to look for in your written estimate from bricklayers.
Licensing and Qualifications
The best bricklayers will be able to provide the following:
A bricklayer will often have questions regarding the job at hand. Be available to answer any questions that could hold up the position.
Offer to do small items, like cleaning tools or mixing mortar. Try to help him save time without getting in the way.
Is a bricklayer necessary to fix a crack in a wall?
It’s essential to gather estimates from a variety of bricklayers. Their knowledge and expertise will provide you with an accurate appraisal. A brick wall crack repair cost will not be as much as building a new fence.
Should I ask for recommendations from a bricklayer?
Absolutely. Your bricklayer has been perfecting his craft for years. He may have ideas that could save in the total cost or to help prevent cracks in the future.
* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources