Bricklaying Wages UK – What Do Bricklayers Really Earn?

If you’ve ever watched a new house go up or seen a builder expertly lay rows of perfect bricks, you’ve probably wondered — how much are bricklaying wages UK?

Bricklaying is one of those trades that never really goes out of fashion. No matter how much technology changes, you still need skilled people to build solid, safe walls. That’s why bricklayers continue to be in demand across housing, commercial, and refurb work.

In this blog, we’ll look at real 2025 figures for bricklaying wages in the UK — from starter pay to London day rates — and we’ll explain what affects those numbers. We’ll also share how to move up the pay ladder faster with the right training, like a CPD-accredited Bricklaying Course that gets you job-ready safely and quickly.

What Does a Bricklayer Actually Do?

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Bricklayers don’t just build walls — they build everything from garden walls to multi-storey buildings. The job takes strength, skill, and focus. Every brick has to be level, every joint neat, and every wall safe. Here’s what bricklayers do day to day:

• Build and repair walls, houses, extensions, and other structures using bricks or blocks.
• Follow building plans and safety standards on-site.
• Mix and spread mortar to set bricks securely.
• Check alignment and levels constantly.
• Work outdoors in all weathers — summer heat, winter cold, and everything in between.
• Keep to site deadlines and speed targets.

It’s physical, yes, but it’s also satisfying. At the end of the day, you can see exactly what you built.

Bricklaying Wages UK – The Real Numbers

So, how much do bricklayers earn right now?

Most employed bricklayers across the UK make between £31,000 and £36,000 a year, according to recent 2025 job data. That’s a strong average compared to many other hands-on jobs. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Beginners: £22,000–£28,000
• Average bricklayers: £31,000–£36,000
• Experienced or specialist bricklayers: £40,000–£45,000+
• London bricklayers: £47,000–£51,000+
• Self-employed: Potentially £55,000–£75,000+ if fully booked

That means even at the middle level, bricklaying sits close to the UK average salary. And at the top, especially for fast or specialist workers, it can pay far more. To explore this topic in depth, read the full article “How Much Does a Bricklayer Earn in the UK?” on Open Learning Academy.

How Much Do New Bricklayers Get Paid?

Everyone starts somewhere.

When you’re newly qualified and just getting used to the pace of site work, you’ll likely start around £22,000 to £28,000 a year. If you’re still an apprentice, it’s lower — usually £11,000 to £16,000 while you’re training. But that’s normal, and the jump after qualification is quick. Once you’re confident with your speed, you can move up to around £30,000+ within a year or two.

Bricklaying rewards skill and reliability. If you show up on time, work hard, and produce clean, accurate walls, your value rises quickly.

Do Experienced Bricklayers Earn More?

Yes — a lot more.

Once you’ve been on the trowel for a few years, your income can rise fast. Skilled, experienced bricklayers often earn £35,000–£40,000, and on top projects or high-end builds, it can hit £45,000+. Supervisory roles and foreman positions can earn even more. Experienced bricklayers also get better site choices, less supervision, and more consistent work because contractors know they can trust them. The best earners in the trade combine speed and precision — they can build quickly without sacrificing quality.

Hourly, Daily, and Weekly Rates Explained

Pay in bricklaying can look confusing because not everyone gets paid the same way. Some are on salaries, others on hourly or day rates. Let’s clear that up.

If you’re employed, you’ll probably get an hourly rate around £14–£15 per hour. Multiply that by your weekly hours (usually around 40–42), and it matches the £31,000–£33,000 yearly average. But if you’re on-site as a subcontractor or self-employed, you’ll often get paid per day or per 1,000 bricks laid.

Right now, the average day rate in 2025 is £240–£320 a day, depending on your location and project type. That means if you work 5 days a week for 48 weeks a year, you could invoice between £57,000 and £76,800 before expenses. Of course, your take-home will drop a bit once you cover your tools, insurance, van, and unpaid days — but even after that, many self-employed bricklayers still earn above the national average.

Do Bricklayers in London Earn More?

Yes — London and the South East almost always pay more.

On average, London bricklayers earn about £38,000 to £47,000, and on high-end sites or commercial builds, wages can reach £51,000+. That’s roughly 10–30% higher than many other UK regions. The cost of living is higher, yes, but the extra pay often balances that out. In areas like Surrey, Essex, Kent, and outer London boroughs, day rates are some of the strongest in the country.

How Much Can Self-Employed Bricklayers Make?

Self-employment gives you freedom — and the potential to earn far more.

When you set your own day rate and keep your calendar full, you control your income. At £250 a day, working full time gives you roughly £60,000 a year before expenses. If you’re faster or take higher-value jobs, you can reach £70,000+. But remember, self-employment comes with responsibilities:

• You pay for your own tools, van, and materials.
• Cover insurance and safety costs.
• Don’t get paid holidays or sick pay.

Still, for many bricklayers, the trade-off is worth it. The independence, flexibility, and earning power make it a great choice once you’ve built your skills and reputation.

What Affects Bricklaying Wages in the UK?

Several things influence what you earn as a bricklayer. Here are the main factors:

• Location: London and the South East pay the most. Northern and rural areas pay slightly less.
• Experience: The more years and sites you’ve worked on, the higher your rate.
• Speed and quality: Faster, cleaner bricklayers get top day rates.
• Type of work: New builds, commercial projects, and heritage jobs all pay differently.
• Qualifications: Having your CSCS card and training makes you more employable.
• Reputation: Reliable workers get repeat contracts — and that keeps income steady.

If you want to move up quickly, invest in yourself. Training, safety cards, and specialist skills all make you stand out in a crowded trade.

Is Bricklaying Good Money in the UK?

Yes — bricklaying is still one of the better-paid trades for people who like physical, hands-on work.

The average full-time salary in the UK is about £39,000 in 2025, so an employed bricklayer earning £31k–£36k is right in that range. Once you move into self-employment, you can easily go above the average. What’s even better is that bricklaying gives you visible results. You build things that last. You can drive past buildings years later and say, “I worked on that.” That sense of pride and achievement is something not every job offers.

Can Bricklayers Increase Their Income?

Yes — and quite a few do. Here’s how bricklayers boost their earnings:

• Work on price jobs: Get paid per 1,000 bricks rather than per day. Fast workers earn more this way.
• Specialise: Learn decorative, heritage, or structural brickwork. These areas pay higher rates.
• Take on supervision: Become a site lead or foreman.
• Stay reliable: Builders pay more for people they can trust to get the job done right and on time.
• Keep your training up to date: Courses like a CPD-accredited Bricklaying Course add professional value to your profile.

Your skills are your biggest asset. The more you develop them, the more you’ll earn.

Why Training Matters for Better Pay

Experience helps, but qualifications open doors. Many sites now require certified training for insurance and safety reasons. That’s where a CPD-accredited Bricklaying Course makes all the difference. It gives you recognised proof of your skills and keeps your knowledge up to date with UK building standards. Through a course like this, you’ll learn:

• Modern bricklaying techniques
• Health and safety best practice
• Site setup and preparation
• Mortar mixing and tool handling
• Speed and accuracy tips from professionals

Once qualified, you can apply for better jobs, negotiate higher rates, or move towards self-employment confidently. The course also looks great on your CV — it shows you take your trade seriously.

What’s the Future for Bricklaying Wages in the UK?

Bricklaying wages are holding strong, and many experts say they’ll keep rising slowly because of the ongoing shortage of skilled tradespeople. Housing demand keeps growing, especially with new developments across England and Wales. Refurbishment work is also busy, as older buildings need constant updates. That means skilled bricklayers will stay in demand — and day rates should stay healthy. As long as you keep learning, stay reliable, and deliver quality work, you’ll always find jobs waiting.

Is Bricklaying a Good Career Choice?

If you enjoy hands-on, outdoor work and want a career with real results, then yes — bricklaying is a great choice. It’s not easy work, but it’s stable, rewarding, and pays fairly well compared to many other trades. You don’t need a degree, you can train quickly, and you can see progress every single day. Plus, once you’re qualified, you can go anywhere in the UK — construction sites always need skilled bricklayers. Bricklaying also gives you freedom. You can:

• Stay employed for a steady income.
• Go self-employed for higher earnings.
• Move into supervision or site management.
• Teach or train new bricklayers later in your career.

That flexibility is one of the trade’s biggest strengths.

How to Start a Career in Bricklaying

Getting started is easier than most people think. You don’t need to spend years in college — you just need the right training and attitude. Here’s a simple path to begin:

1. Take a Bricklaying Course. Start with a CPD-accredited course that covers the basics and gives you a solid foundation.
2. Get hands-on practice. Whether it’s through a training centre, an apprenticeship, or part-time work, practice is key.
3. Apply for your CSCS card. You’ll need it to work on most UK construction sites.
4. Start small, then build up. Begin with smaller projects and move to larger or more complex work as you gain confidence.
5. Keep learning. Techniques, tools, and safety rules keep changing — staying updated keeps you employable.

At Open Learning Academy, our CPD-accredited Bricklaying Course is designed to make this process simple. You can train online or in a blended format, at your own pace, with real industry-relevant content.

What’s It Really Like Working as a Bricklayer?

Bricklaying isn’t for everyone — but if you love working outdoors, being active, and seeing your work come to life, you’ll probably love it. Days can start early, around 7 or 8 in the morning, and finish mid-afternoon. You’ll work as part of a team, usually with labourers, site managers, and other trades. There’s a strong sense of community on most sites — everyone relies on each other to get the job done.

It’s physical, but it keeps you fit. It’s repetitive at times, but every project brings something new. And when the weather’s good, there’s no better office than a building site under blue skies.

A Quick Recap of Bricklaying Wages in the UK

Let’s sum it all up clearly:

• Apprentice bricklayers: £11,000–£16,000
• Newly qualified: £22,000–£28,000
• Average working bricklayer: £31,000–£36,000
• Experienced: £35,000–£40,000+
• London/South East: £47,000–£51,000
• Self-employed/day rate: £240–£320/day (£57,000–£76,800 before costs)

Your actual income depends on your skill, speed, and reliability — but bricklaying remains one of the most solid trades for long-term earning potential.

Final Thoughts: Building a Solid Future in Bricklaying

So, are bricklaying wages in the UK good? Absolutely. From apprentices to seasoned pros, the trade offers a fair wage for hard work and plenty of room to grow. The more effort you put in, the better your rewards.

If you’re serious about building a strong career — literally and financially — start with proper training. A Bricklaying Course gives you the skills, knowledge, and confidence to step onto site ready for work. Bricklaying is a trade that will always be needed. Houses, schools, shops — they all begin with a bricklayer. If you enjoy creating things that last and earning while you do it, there’s no better time to start. Your career in bricklaying begins with one simple step: learn, train, and build your future.

FAQs

How much do bricklayers get paid in the UK?

UK bricklayers typically earn about £25,000–£45,000 annually; highly experienced, site or self-employed workers can exceed this depending on region and demand.

Can bricklayers make 100k a year?

Yes, with strong experience, niche work, high productivity and running a business or subcontracting, some bricklayers can reach £100k+, including overtime and bonuses.

Is bricklaying a good career in the UK?

Yes, it offers strong demand, apprenticeship routes, self-employment opportunities and good earnings for skilled workers, though work is physical and weather-dependent.

Does a bricklayer get paid well?

Many bricklayers are paid well relative to other trades, especially experienced or specialist workers, but income depends heavily on speed, reliability, location and workload.

Is brick masonry a dying trade?

No, brick masonry remains in demand for housing and commercial projects, though methods evolve; skilled bricklayers are still needed.

How much does a bricklayer charge to lay 1000 bricks?

Rates vary, but roughly £500–£900 per 1,000 bricks, depending on job complexity, location, access, mortar type and who supplies materials.

Is brick laying a difficult skill to master?

Yes, it’s physically demanding and requires precision, speed and stamina; mastering professional standards usually takes several years’ training and site experience.

Do brickies get paid per brick?

Sometimes. Many are paid day rate or per job; some site or gang work pays per brick with targets.

How many bricks should a good bricklayer lay in a day?

A good bricklayer may lay around 500–800 bricks daily on straightforward work; complex jobs or poor access reduce output.