Masonry costs vary depending on the type of work.  Brick veneer facades typically range from $15 to $25 per square foot, while stone veneers can range from $20 to $50 per square foot.  Structural CMU block walls cost between **$8 to $20 per square foot**, depending on the size and whether the wall is load-bearing.

The time to complete masonry work depends on the project's size and complexity.  A small brick veneer repair might take a day or two, while a full foundation replacement could take several weeks.  Weather conditions can also influence the timeline.

The prices in the table are based on a typical property in an average suburban area. Masonry costs can vary substantially by location. If you are located in the East or West Coast, you could expect to pay 15% to 50% more than the recommended price provided. Consult our location multiplier index for more accurate pricing in your market.

While our guide provides a general framework for estimating masonry costs, remember that prices can vary significantly from one location to the next. The best way to determine accurate pricing in your area is to contact local masonry contractors directly.

When you reach out to contractors, be clear and concise about your information needs. Explain that you are a real estate investor working on preliminary estimates for potential projects. You can describe the type of masonry work you anticipate needing (e.g., brick veneer repair, CMU block wall construction) and the approximate scope of the project.

Even if a contractor seems hesitant to provide a firm price over the phone, most should be willing to give you a general idea of their rates and how they approach pricing. This will help you get a better sense of the local market and refine your budget estimates.

Tips for contacting contractors:

• Be upfront about your needs:  Let them know you are in the early stages of planning and gathering preliminary estimates.
• Don't pressure them for a firm quote:  Explain that you will contact them for a formal quote when you have a specific project ready.
• Get multiple quotes:  Reach out to several contractors in your area to compare pricing and find the best fit for your needs.

Several factors can influence the final cost of your masonry project:

• Type of Masonry Material: The type of material you choose significantly impacts the cost. Natural stone veneers are generally more expensive than brick, and the cost of brick can vary depending on the type, color, and quality. CMU blocks also have varying costs depending on their size and strength.
• Size of the Project: As with most construction projects, larger masonry projects often benefit from economies of scale. This means that the cost per square foot may be lower for larger projects compared to smaller ones.
• Shape of the Home:  Homes with simple, rectangular shapes are typically less expensive to work with than those with complex designs, gables, or many corners. Intricate designs require more labor and materials, increasing costs.
• Number of Stories:  Single-story homes are generally easier and less expensive to work with than multi-story homes when it comes to masonry. Working on taller structures might require scaffolding or lifts, which can add to labor costs.
• Masonry Removal: If your project involves removing existing masonry, this will increase the overall cost. Demolition and disposal of old materials add to labor and material expenses.
• Concrete Footings: If you're building a new CMU block wall, it will need to be built on a concrete footing. This adds another element to your project and may require hiring a separate concrete contractor, increasing costs.
• Location:  Labor and material costs can differ significantly based on your location. Urban areas and regions with high construction demand often have higher masonry costs than rural or less populated areas.
• Seasonality: Masonry work is often influenced by weather conditions. Mortar and grout require specific temperatures for proper installation. Working during colder months might necessitate temporary heating or protective measures, which can increase costs. Additionally, peak construction seasons can affect contractor availability and pricing.

Estimating the amount of masonry work needed for your project involves calculating the total square footage of the area. Here's how to approach it for different types of masonry:

For walls with a simple, rectangular shape:

1. Measure the length and height:  Measure the length and height of the wall.
2. Calculate the area: Multiply the length by the height to find the total square footage.

For walls with gables (triangular sections):

1. Calculate the area of rectangular sections: If the wall has rectangular portions, measure their length and height, then multiply to find the area of each.
2. Measure the gable: Measure the height of the gable (from the base to the peak) and the width of the base.
3. Calculate the gable area: Multiply the gable's height and width, then divide by 2 to find the area of the triangular section.
4. Add all areas together: Combine the square footage of the rectangular sections and the gable sections to find the total masonry square footage.

Important Note: When calculating the area, do not subtract the space occupied by windows or other openings. This extra square footage will account for material waste and ensure you have enough material to complete the project.

Now that you've measured and calculated the total square footage of the masonry work needed for your project, you can determine a rough budget. To do this, simply multiply the total square footage by the budgeted price per square foot for your chosen masonry material.

For example, let's say you have a brick veneer wall with a total area of 200 square feet, and your budgeted cost for brick veneer is $20 per square foot. Your estimated budget for this masonry wall would be:

• 200 square feet x $20/square foot = $4,000

Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate. The actual cost may vary depending on factors like the complexity of the work, access to the site, and the specific materials used. Always consult with local contractors for accurate pricing in your area.