How Much Do Bricklayers Get Paid? Salary Guide for 2026

Bricklaying is a popular job and offers steady work across the UK. Many people want a stable and well-paid career in this trade. Right now, bricklayers earn about £30,000 a year on average. However, most jobs pay between £25,500 and £32,300, depending on experience and location. As a result, many new learners often ask, How much do bricklayers get paid.

Most bricklayers start with an NVQ Level 2 while learning on the job. After that, many move up to Level 3 or learn a special skill to earn more. Over time, as they gain experience, their pay often rises too. For example, bricklayers in London can earn around £32,400. In contrast, pay in Manchester and Birmingham sits between £28,200 and £28,700. Apprentices usually earn between £11,000 and £18,000 at the start. Skilled bricklayers can make £24,000 to £40,000 or more. Also, self-employed bricklayers or business owners can earn £56,000 to £60,000 before costs. So, pay can change a lot depending on skill, location and type of work.

Now, let’s take a closer look at how much bricklayers earn and what affects their pay.

What is a Bricklayer and What Work Do They Do?

A bricklayer, also called a "brickie," is a skilled construction worker. They use bricks, blocks, and stones to build or repair buildings. Bricklayers are important because they create strong walls, chimneys, foundations, and sometimes decorative features. Without them, buildings would not be safe or long-lasting.

What Bricklayers Do (Key Tasks)

Bricklayers work on many projects, like new homes, extensions, or fixing old buildings. Their main tasks include:

Reading Plans: They look at blueprints to see how the building should be made.
Setting Out: They measure areas and put the first row of bricks correctly to start the work.
Mixing Mortar: They prepare mortar, which sticks the bricks together.
Laying Bricks/Blocks: They use a trowel to place bricks in the right pattern and make walls.
Checking Alignment: They use levels or plumb lines to make sure walls are straight and even.
Cutting and Shaping: They cut bricks or blocks to fit corners or spaces using tools.
Repairing Work: They replace broken bricks and fix old mortar, called repointing.
Adding Extras: They can install insulation, wall ties, damp-proof layers, and lintels to make buildings safe and strong.

Bricklayers need good hands-on skills, patience, and attention to detail. They work both indoors and outdoors, in all types of weather. This makes the job varied and sometimes challenging, but also very rewarding.

Skills and Qualifications Bricklayers Need

Bricklayers need a mix of physical strength, skill, and knowledge. Most learn through apprenticeships (NVQ Level 2 or 3) or vocational training. They must know how to read drawings, mix mortar, use tools, follow safety rules, and measure materials accurately. In addition, a CSCS card is important to work on construction sites.

Key Skills for Bricklayers

Physical Fitness: Able to lift heavy materials, stand for long hours, and work at heights.
Technical Skills: Know building methods, read plans, and lay bricks and blocks correctly.
Precision: Work carefully to make walls straight and strong.
Numeracy: Measure and calculate materials to reduce waste.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Use tools accurately for detailed work.
Safety Awareness: Follow health and safety rules and use PPE properly.
Soft Skills: Manage time, work well in a team, and work independently. Moreover, these skills help bricklayers work faster and more efficiently.

Qualifications & Training

Apprenticeships: Common route, either Intermediate or Advanced in Bricklaying.
Vocational Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Bricklaying.
CSCS Card: Needed to work on construction sites.
Health & Safety Certificates: Often required.

Also, bricklayers must be able to work outdoors in all weather. Some may need a driving licence to travel between sites.

How Much Do Self-Employed Bricklayers Get Paid?

Self-employed bricklayers in the UK usually earn between £300 and £320 per day. This means they can make around £56,000 to £60,000 a year before tax. Hourly rates are about £38–£40. However, the exact pay depends on experience, location, and the type of work. Business costs like tools, fuel, and insurance also reduce the money they actually take home.

Key Earnings (Before Tax)

Daily Rate: £240–£320 (higher for urgent or specialised jobs)
Hourly Rate: £35–£40+
Annual Income: £45,000–£60,000+
Limited Company Owner: Around £60,000+ per year

What Affects Pay

Location: Bricklayers in London earn more, usually £50,000–£60,000 per year.
Experience: Beginners earn less, while experienced workers earn more.
Expenses: Costs for fuel, tools, insurance and vehicles lower net income.
Project Type: Large commercial or specialist jobs pay more than small home repairs.

Self-Employed vs Employed

Self-employed bricklayers usually earn more than employed ones, with gross pay over £56,000. At the same time, they must manage their own taxes and expenses. Employed bricklayers earn closer to £40,000 but don’t pay for tools, travel, or insurance.

How Location Influences Bricklayer Pay in the UK

How location affects bricklayer earnings:

London – Bricklayers earn the highest here because there are many jobs and large building projects. As a result, day rates and pay per brick are higher, especially for specialist or decorative work.
Major Cities – Manchester and Birmingham pay a little less since there are fewer big projects and lower demand than in London. Still, skilled bricklayers can earn well on challenging or important jobs.
Smaller Towns and Regions – In northern England, Wales, and Scotland, pay is lower due to fewer large projects and lower living costs. This also affects day rates and hourly pay for regular work.

Day Rate – Pay varies depending on location and type of job. Therefore, city or specialist work usually pays more, while standard jobs in smaller towns pay less.

Hourly Rate – How much you earn per hour depends on your experience and location. As a result, bricklayers in London can charge higher rates, while rates outside major cities are lower for the same work.

Per-Brick Pay – Rates differ based on the brick type, difficulty, and location. So, London jobs pay more per brick because the work is harder or decorative, while regular jobs elsewhere earn less.

Location greatly affects bricklayer pay in the UK. Busy areas pay more, while smaller towns pay less. Therefore, bricklayers should plan their day, hourly, and per-brick rates according to where they work.

Is Bricklaying a Good Career for Salary Growth?

Bricklaying can be a good career if you want steady work and a chance to earn more over time. First, there is a strong demand for bricklayers across the UK. Builders always need skilled workers for new homes, extensions, and repairs, so jobs are usually available. Even in smaller towns, there are regular projects, so finding work is easier than in many other trades.

Also, salaries can grow as you gain experience. Beginners usually earn around £20,000–£25,000 a year, but skilled bricklayers or those who specialise in decorative or commercial work can earn £35,000–£40,000 or more. For example, self-employed bricklayers often earn £56,000+ a year before costs, depending on the projects they take.

In addition, there are many ways to progress. You can start as an apprentice, move to Level 3 qualifications, learn new techniques or even run your own business. Specialising in certain areas, like chimney work or heritage restoration, can also increase your pay.

Finally, bricklaying is hands-on and rewarding. You can see the results of your work every day, and your income can improve as your skills and reputation grow. This makes it a satisfying career both financially and personally.

Factors That Affect How Much Bricklayers Get Paid

Qualifications and Training: Bricklayers with NVQ Level 2 or 3, or those who specialise in certain skills, usually earn more than beginners.
Type of Projects: Large commercial jobs, tricky repairs or decorative work often pay more than standard home building. Skilled bricklayers can earn more by taking on these projects.
Overtime and Bonuses: Working extra hours or urgent jobs can add hundreds of pounds to weekly earnings.
Employer and Company Size: Bigger construction companies often pay higher rates, while small local businesses may pay less but offer more flexible work.
Overall: Bricklayers can increase pay by improving skills, choosing higher-paying projects, working extra hours, or picking the right employer.

How to Increase Your Earnings as a Bricklayer

Gain Certifications: To start with, getting higher qualifications like NVQ Level 3 or extra courses can show employers you are skilled. This helps you get better pay and more interesting jobs.
Specialise in High-Demand Skills: In addition, learning special skills like decorative brickwork, chimney building, or commercial projects can make a big difference. As a result, you can charge higher rates and stand out from other bricklayers.
Start Your Own Business: Moreover, running your own business or working as self-employed lets you take on bigger projects and control your income. You can earn more depending on how many jobs you take and how well you manage costs like tools and transport.
Overall: Finally, improving your skills, learning specialist work, or starting your own business can help you earn more money and build a stronger career. Bricklaying is hands-on and rewarding, and with effort, your pay can grow over time.

How Much Do Bricklayers Make Per Hour?

Bricklayer pay in the UK depends on your experience, skills, and location. To start with, most bricklayers earn around £14 per hour on average. Apprentices earn less, while newly qualified bricklayers earn a bit more. As you gain experience, your pay increases, especially when you take on harder or more skilled jobs.

Hourly pay also changes depending on the type of work and where you are. Experienced bricklayers can earn £20–£23 per hour, while specialists or self-employed workers can charge £25 or more. In addition, big cities like London usually pay the highest rates, while smaller towns are closer to the average.

Final Thoughts: How Much Do Bricklayers Get Paid?

Bricklaying is a skilled job that offers steady work and good chances to earn more over time. First, pay depends on your experience, skills, and where you work. Beginners usually earn less, but as you gain experience and training, your pay can grow. Learning special skills or running your own business can also increase your earnings.

Bricklayers work on many types of projects, from building new homes to repairing old ones. The job can be hard at times, but it is rewarding. You can see the results of your work every day, and your skills will improve with experience. Finally, if you want to know more about bricklaying careers, pay, and training, check out our blog. We share guides, tips, and advice to help you plan your career and make smart choices.

FAQs: How Much Do Bricklayers Get Paid?

1. Is bricklaying a tough job?

Yes, bricklaying is physically demanding. It requires lifting heavy materials, working in all weather, and staying precise for long hours.

2. Will AI replace bricklayers?

No, AI cannot fully replace bricklayers. Skilled brickwork needs human precision, problem-solving and hands-on creativity.

3. What jobs pay $200,000 in Ireland?

High-paying jobs in Ireland include doctors, surgeons, IT managers, finance directors, and specialised engineers.

4. What do bricklayers charge a day?

Bricklayers in the UK usually charge £240–£320 per day, depending on skill, experience, and location.

5. What are common bricklaying mistakes to avoid?

Common mistakes: uneven walls, poor mortar mix, incorrect measurements, weak foundations, and skipping safety steps.

6. How much does 1000 bricks cost?

1000 standard bricks cost around £300–£500 in the UK, depending on type and supplier.

7. Is bricklaying high paying?

Yes, experienced and skilled bricklayers can earn £35,000–£40,000 or more, with self-employed workers making £56,000+.

8. How much does a 17 year old apprentice get paid?

A 17-year-old bricklaying apprentice earns around £11,000–£13,000 per year.