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Everything You Need To Know About Finding A Bricklayer

Filed under Bricklayers

By StartLocal Editorial Team · Updated 26 October 2026

Bricklaying is defined as the construction of a building or structure using individual bricks or blocks held together by mortar. Such structures include internal and external walls, fences, fireplaces, staircases, piering, pointing, retaining walls and segmental paving. One of the most versatile building materials available, brick is ideal for any project that requires strong, long-lasting construction.

Advantages of Brick

There are good reasons why brick is one of the world's most popular construction materials. Bricks stand up well in comparison to other materials in extreme conditions such as fires and floods. Bricks provide very good acoustic insulation as compared to many other residential building materials. Low-maintenance and termite resistant, a home, wall, fence or retaining wall constructed by a skilled bricklayer will outlast most other materials and require very little upkeep. If full brick is not required, brick veneer is a cost-effective alternative to other facing products.

Brick colours range from white to the darkest blues, greys, reds and even purple. Bricklayers can use contrasting or matching coloured mortar to achieve a unique appearance. Aside from standard bricks, bricklayers work with concrete blocks, clay (mudbrick), clay or concrete pavers and other types of solid or hollow-core materials. Manufacturers of brick products produce modern versions of "brick" and skilled bricklayers know how to work with them to create solid, attractive structures.

If you're looking for the strength and durability of brick, but want a smooth or textured surface in the colour of your choice, brick can be rendered by a rendering professional.

Choosing a Bricklayer

Some bricklayers do general brick work while others are specialists. For best results, choose a bricklayer with experience in the type of bricklaying you need. Aside from new brick homes and brick home alterations and extensions, some specific categories of bricklaying include:

Blockwork is construction with concrete or cement blocks Brick fences can be solid or other materials can be used in conjunction with brick Brick pointing may be needed if the mortar between bricks deteriorates Brick fireplaces require specialised skills Piering is the use of brick or blocks to build a support structure or reinforce a weak foundation

As with any trade professional, make sure that the person you hire to undertake any bricklaying is licensed and qualified. Check licensing requirements with your state or territory building or fair trading regulator. A professional bricklayer will have years of experience to draw on and will carry insurance. Check to be sure their licence and insurance are both up-to-date before hiring a bricklayer.

How Much Does Bricklaying Cost?

Bricklayers charge by the hour or by the brick. Hourly rates start at about $32 per hour for basic work, but for most jobs, the bricklayer will work with an apprentice or crew. For larger jobs, a per brick rate will be more accurate. The rate per brick will vary depending on the type of job and your location, but the average rate is about $1.00 per brick. It takes about 49 standard sized bricks to cover one square metre, so expect to pay around $50 per square metre for brick work. The cost may be more or less than this, depending on the complexity of the job, your location and other factors. If fine detail work is needed, the cost will probably be higher.

Cost and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.

Australian sources