How Much Do Bricklayers Get Paid UK & Other Impacting Factors

Bricklaying is a core trade in the UK construction industry. It offers a robust and stable career path for skilled workers. Many people ask, “How much do bricklayers get paid UK“? The answer really depends on your experience and the type of work you do. On average, bricklayers earn around £35,000 to £39,000 a year, and pay is often higher in London at £38,000 or more.

Stats suggest that most employed bricklayers earn about £17 to £20 per hour. On the other hand, self-employed workers usually earn £25 or more per hour. These numbers are just a starting point. Skilled contractors or business owners can make over £60,000 a year, especially if they have specialist skills or steady work.

In this guide, we’ll explain the important factors that drive bricklayer earnings in the UK masonry industry.

What Does a Bricklayer Do?

Bricklayers don’t just stack bricks. They build and repair walls, houses, and other structures from drawings. You’ll mix and lay mortar, making sure each brick is level and tidy. Keeping courses straight is very important — a crooked wall is not just ugly, it can be unsafe.

Most bricklayers work outdoors, which means you’ll face all kinds of weather. Therefore, many enjoy it because no two days are the same. Safety is also a big deal. Sites have rules to protect workers, and bricklayers usually work to speed and quality targets. That means doing your work efficiently while keeping it neat.

Bricklaying Profiles

Bricklaying isn’t one single job, it includes different roles and growth paths. Each profile offers a way to gain experience, earn more, and move up in the trade.

Apprentice Bricklayer

This is where it all begins. Apprentices support experienced workers, mix mortar, and learn proper laying techniques. The pay is modest, but it’s the best way to learn hands-on skills that employers value.

Site Bricklayer

Once qualified, you can work on construction sites building homes, walls, and extensions. Site work often pays a day rate, and employers value those who can work fast and neatly.

Skilled or Specialist Bricklayer

Some bricklayers focus on special tasks like stone masonry. Others work in heritage restoration or decorative projects. These jobs need more detail and precision, but they often come with higher pay.

Self-Employed Bricklayer

Self-employed bricklayers handle private jobs or subcontracting work. You set your own prices, manage your time, and take home more money per job — but you also cover your own tools, transport, and taxes.

Bricklaying Contractor or Business Owner

At the top level, contractors run teams, quote for large projects, and manage full builds. With skill and good planning, these professionals can earn £60,000 or more a year, sometimes far beyond that.

Each stage builds on the last. The more skill and speed you gain, the more you can earn — and the more independence you can have.

How Much Do Bricklayers Get Paid UK?

For a typical employed bricklayer, expect about £32,000 per year. Job adverts often show a wider range, £25,000–£45,000, to cover new starters, different regions, and experienced workers. Your exact pay depends on location, experience, and skills. Bricklayers who are fast, reliable, and can work on tricky projects usually earn more.

Do Bricklayers Get Paid Hourly, Daily, or Weekly?

There are mixed versions of how the payment system works in the UK. Employed bricklayers often get £14–£15 an hour or a yearly salary. Whereas site or subcontract jobs usually pay a day rate, which can range from £240 to £320 a day. Small private jobs sometimes pay per 1,000 bricks or per project. This method is common for self-employed bricklayers who calculate time and costs carefully. Actually, knowing the different ways bricklayers are paid helps you plan your career. 

Want a full breakdown of how much you could earn and how to increase it? Read the Open Learning Academy guide on “How Much a Bricklayer Earns”. It explains real pay examples, regional differences, and smart ways to grow your income in the trade.

How Much Do Apprentice Bricklayers Earn?

Apprentices usually earn £11,000 to £16,000 a year, depending on the employer and hours. Once qualified and working full site hours, most jump quickly into £22,000–£28,000. Therefore, apprenticeships are a good investment. You earn less at first, but you gain skills that will help you earn more later.

Do Experienced Bricklayers Earn More?

Yes. After a few years, it’s realistic to earn £35,000–£40,000. Specialist or fast bricklayers can reach £45,000+ employed. The key to higher pay is speed, accuracy, and reputation. Most often, contractors prefer bricklayers who deliver quality work on time.

How Much Do Self-Employed Bricklayers Get Paid?

Self-employed bricklayers have the potential to earn more. Day rates in 2025 are £240 to £320.

Working five days a week for 48 weeks gives roughly £57,000 to £76,800 a year before expenses.

Remember, expenses like tools, van, insurance, and tax reduce take-home pay.

Even so, self-employment allows you to choose projects and work where you want.

Do Bricklayers in London Earn Higher Wages?

Yes. Location matters a lot for the bricklayer’s pay. Usually, London and the South East pay 10–30% more.

London bricklayers often earn £38,000+, and high-end commercial projects can pay £47,000–£51,000. In contrast, outside London, you can still earn well, but you may need to travel to busier areas to get higher pay.

What Factors Affect Bricklayer Pay in the UK?

Several factors affect how much a bricklayer earns:

• Location: London and the South East pay the most.
• Experience: The longer you’ve been working, the more you can earn.
• Speed and reliability: Fast, consistent work is rewarded.
• Type of work: New builds, commercial sites, or private jobs all pay differently.
• Qualifications: CSCS cards and certificates help prove your skills.
• Pricing skills: Knowing how to price per 1,000 bricks can boost earnings.
• Availability: The more consistently you can stay booked, the more money you earn.

Is Bricklaying Good Money in the UK?

Yes. Employed bricklayers earn near the UK full-time median. But self-employed bricklayers can earn much more. It’s a solid choice if you like hands-on, outdoor work and don’t mind travelling to sites. Unlike office jobs, bricklayers see results daily. You build walls, houses, and structures with your own hands.

Can You Make £100,000 as a Bricklayer?

It’s rare but possible. Self-employed bricklayers working on big commercial projects can reach six figures. The key is combining speed, quality, and smart job selection. High-paying projects, especially in London or busy regions, pay more per brick or per day.

How many bricks can a bricklayer put in a single day?

A skilled bricklayer can lay 800 to 1,000 bricks a day, depending on the job. Factors that affect this include:

• Type of bricks and mortar
• Complexity of the wall or structure
• Weather conditions

Specialist bricklayers may lay fewer bricks but earn more because the work is tricky or high-end.

How Much Does a Bricklayer Charge to Lay 1,000 Bricks?

Labour for 1,000 bricks usually costs £300 to £500, depending on experience and location. Always check what materials are included before starting the job. Charging per 1,000 bricks is common for self-employed bricklayers, as it helps them calculate time and costs accurately.

Final Thoughts: Understanding How Much Bricklayers Get Paid in the UK

The fastest way to earn more is to work efficiently, keep your CSCS card valid, and pick higher-paying sites. Bricklaying is a satisfying job because you see your work every day. Here, you build real things, solve problems, and develop skills that last a lifetime. With the right mix of experience, speed, and smart planning, bricklaying can be a well-paid, rewarding career in the UK. 

If you want to start strong or boost your current skills, the Bricklaying Training Course at Open Learning Academy is a great next step. It gives you basic knowledge, helps you get site-ready faster, and sets you up for better-paying opportunities across the UK. 

FAQ

How much do UK bricklayers get paid per brick?

Usually between 30p and 50p per brick, depending on experience and location.

Can bricklayers make £100k?

It’s possible if you run your own business, take on big projects, and work long hours.

Is bricklaying a good career in the UK?

Yes, it’s skilled, in demand, and offers steady work and growth opportunities.

Do bricklayers make good money?

Experienced bricklayers can earn well, especially if self-employed or in London/the South East.

Can you lay 1000 bricks a day?

For a skilled bricklayer, 800–1,000 bricks a day is achievable on standard jobs.

What jobs pay £300k a year in the UK?

Senior roles like doctors, lawyers, investment bankers, and top executives.

How much does a bricklayer charge to lay 1000 bricks?

Labour usually costs £300 to £500 for 1,000 bricks; materials are extra.

Do bricklayers get paid £1 a brick?

Rarely; that would be very high. Most get 30p to 50p per brick.

What is the labour cost per 1000 bricks?

Typically £300 to £500, depending on skill and location.

Do bricklayers get paid hourly?

Yes, hourly rates range from £15 to £25 for employed bricklayers, higher if self-employed.