Michigan Residential Builders License Practice Test

How many standard bricks are needed to cover one square foot of wall area in mortar construction?

1. 4

2. 6

3. 7

4. 10

The correct answer is: 7

In mortar construction, the standard number of bricks required to cover one square foot of wall area is approximately 7. This estimate takes into account the dimensions of a standard brick, which typically measures about 7.5 inches long, 3.5 inches wide, and 2.25 inches high. When calculating the number of bricks needed for one square foot, it is essential to factor in the mortar joint spaces, which generally take up additional area between the bricks. The inclusion of these joints means that more bricks are necessary to achieve the desired coverage, as the overall area covered is slightly less than the total surface area when measuring solely with the dimensions of the bricks. Therefore, the figure of 7 bricks per square foot provides a practical estimation for builders and contractors when planning and executing masonry work, ensuring that the actual quantity of materials is adequately addressed during calculations. This consideration of both brick size and mortar joint space is vital for accurate project budgeting and material procurement.