How much do bricklayers cost? [2024]

Bricklaying is one of the biggest industries for building materials, as it has retained its popularity and it is one of the most durable and reliable choices for housing. Bricklayer costs have not risen in proportion to rising house prices, however it is important to note that different bricklayers will charge differently for different jobs.

Brick as a building material

Over the years, brick has remained a popular building material, despite the fact that it can be a more expensive choice. A house can be built from:

• Single brick
• Double brick
• Brick veneer

A surprising number of custom homes are still built from double brick. This is because double brick (or cavity brick) has excellent thermal mass and can keep a home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Single brick tends to absorb heat and release it into the home at night. Brick veneer is second to double brick for thermal insulation because a brick veneer home can be insulated.

There are other factors that play into why brick is such a popular choice as a building material. One example is its longevity. There are many buildings that are decades old that still hold aesthetic value and are structurally sound. 

Brick also requires little maintenance, unlike some building materials that succumb to the weather. Brick (especially double brick) has excellent acoustic and thermal insulation, making it a good choice for areas where there is high traffic. It's also a good choice for fire-prone areas because brick is non-flammable.

What do bricklayers do?

A good bricklayer can work on any type of terrain and produce solid, long lasting results. All bricklayers within Australia have to undergo training at a TAFE or equivalent college, as well as complete a long apprenticeship. During their apprenticeship, they work on all kinds of projects and learn from their employer how to do any kind of job. When they have mastered the craft, they can continue to work with a bricklaying company or they can start their own business and hire apprentices to help them, passing their knowledge to a new generation of bricklayers.

While bricklayers certainly lay bricks for the majority of their work, they also have a variety of skills. Aside from laying bricks, they:

• Do brick pointing (when mortar needs replacing)
• Repair brickwork
• Lay stonework
• Lay concrete blocks

A good bricklayer can build a house, create a wall, lay bricks for pavers or a driveway and do almost any other type of bricklaying job. One job most bricklayers don't usually undertake is wall rendering. Rendering is a special technique done by professionals. 

How much do bricklayers cost?

On average, bricklayers charge between $50 and $120 per hour. The cost will depend on the type of work involved in the project. A more challenging project will cost more per hour than a simpler project. Some examples of projects that might cost more include:

• Difficult sites
• Risky or hard to reach areas
• Second storeys are generally more expensive than single storey homes

The complexity of a project will also cost more. Some projects are fairly straightforward, but when curves and other more complex designs are added to the equation, the cost per hour will be higher.

What to look for when hiring a bricklayer

Not all bricklayers are alike. When hiring a bricklayer, there are a few questions you should ask them before you make your final decision. When getting quotes from bricklayers, find out:

• How long they have been working in your area
• If they have references for you
• If they have a portfolio of completed work
• Are they insured?
• Do they hold a trade licence?

Trade licensing for bricklayers may not be necessary for smaller jobs in some states, but a licensed bricklayer will have more experience and probably take a more professional approach. 

How to become a bricklayer in Australia

If you’re looking to embark on the next stage in your career and become a bricklayer, there are a few steps you will need to complete first. It will all depend on the requirements in your area. 

Generally, to become a bricklayer you will need to complete a Certificate III in Bricklaying at a TAFE or equivalent organisation. There is always an extensive apprenticeship involved with becoming a bricklayer so you can gain the required experience on the job. 

You will also need to obtain a White Card through a Registered Training Organisation and complete any other requirements within your area before you begin practising as a bricklayer.