How Much Does a Bricklayer Earn?

Have you ever wondered how much does a bricklayer earn? Bricklaying is a skilled trade that offers both steady work and good pay. It’s a hands-on job that takes focus, patience and pride. Every wall or building they create shows the effort and talent behind the work.

In this blog, we’ll explore what bricklayers do each day, how much they earn as employees or self-employed workers, and how location can change their pay. We’ll also look at which qualifications can help them earn more. So, let’s get started and see why bricklaying can be such a rewarding path!

What Does a Bricklayer Do Each Day?

So, what does a bricklayer really do each day? Let’s take a closer look. A bricklayer starts the day by checking the building plans carefully. They make sure they understand where each wall, corner, and opening will go. This helps them follow the right design and avoid mistakes.

Next, they mix mortar — the thick paste that holds the bricks together. It must have the right texture so the bricks stick well and stay strong. Then, they lay each brick one by one, checking that every row is straight and level. Bricklayers often use tools like a spirit level, trowel, and string line to make sure their work looks neat.

They may build walls for new houses, schools, or offices. Some also repair damaged walls or replace old bricks to make buildings safe again. A bricklayer may also work with stone, blocks, or decorative patterns depending on the project. Bricklaying needs skill, focus, and teamwork. Bricklayers often work with builders, site managers, and other trades. They must stay safe on site and follow all safety rules.

The job can be tough because bricklayers work outside in all kinds of weather — sun, wind, or rain. Still, they feel proud seeing the walls and buildings they built. Every brick they lay shows their effort, care, and talent. That’s why bricklaying is such a strong and rewarding career!

How Much Does a Bricklayer Earn in the UK?

The answer is quite good! A bricklayer earns about £36,000 a year or around £14.35 an hour. But pay can change depending on your skills, where you work, and how long you have worked. Here’s a simple look:

• New bricklayers earn between £18,000 and £25,000 a year.
• Skilled bricklayers make around £30,000 to £45,000 a year.
• Self-employed bricklayers can earn £50,000 to £60,000 or more each year.
• Bricklayers in London and the South East earn more because of higher living costs.
• Bricklayers in other parts of the UK earn a bit less, but things cost less there too.

So, bricklaying can give you a good income. With more skills and hard work, you can earn even more over time.

How Much Do Entry-Level Bricklayers Earn?

Let’s talk about what new bricklayers can earn. Everyone starts somewhere, right? When you first begin your bricklaying career, your pay may be lower. But it grows fast as you gain more experience and skill.

Here’s a simple look:

• New bricklayers usually earn between £19,000 and £24,000 a year.
• Some can make around £18 an hour, depending on the company and location.
• At this stage, you learn from experienced bricklayers.
• You build your speed, skill, and confidence on real projects.
• As you improve, your pay quickly goes up.

So, even if you start small, don’t worry. Bricklaying is a trade where hard work always brings better pay and more respect. If you want to explore more about salaries, training, and career growth, check out this detailed guide on how much does a bricklayer earn in the UK. It gives you all the latest insights to help you plan your future in bricklaying.

What’s the Pay for Experienced Bricklayers?

Let’s look at how much experienced bricklayers earn. After a few years in the trade, your skill and speed improve a lot. You take on bigger jobs, work with confidence, and people trust your work more.

Experienced bricklayers usually earn between £40,000 and £45,000 a year. Some professionals make even more — around £50,000 or higher — especially when they handle complex projects or manage small teams. Those who lead building teams or run their own projects often earn higher pay. Bricklayers with great skill and a strong reputation also get more work offers and better rates from clients.

So, as your skills grow, your income grows too. Bricklaying is a career that truly rewards hard work, talent, and dedication.

How Much Do Self-Employed Bricklayers Make?

Let’s look at how much self-employed bricklayers can earn. Many bricklayers decide to work for themselves after gaining some experience. It gives them freedom, better pay, and full control over their time and projects.

A self-employed bricklayer usually charges around £38 an hour, which is close to £300 a day. Over a year, this can add up to £55,000 to £60,000 before paying for expenses like tools, fuel, or insurance. However, income can change from month to month. Some weeks may be busy with several projects, while others may be slower. Good planning helps keep work steady all year round.

Self-employed bricklayers can choose many types of work. Some build new homes. Others repair old walls or create beautiful garden spaces. With more skill and a strong reputation, clients often pay more for their service. So, going self-employed can be a smart move. It takes effort and good organisation, but it brings freedom, flexibility, and the chance to earn more money doing what you love.

Does Location (London vs Other Areas) Affect Pay?

Yes, location plays a big role in how much a bricklayer earns. Bricklayers in London usually earn more than those in other parts of the UK. The average pay in London is about £37,823 a year or around £18 an hour.

Here’s a clear comparison:

So, bricklayers in London earn more, but they also spend more. In smaller towns, the pay may be a bit lower, yet life costs less, too.

In the end, it balances out. No matter where you work, bricklaying offers good pay and a strong sense of pride in your work.

What Hourly Rates Do Bricklayers Receive?

Bricklayers earn different hourly rates based on their skills and experience. Most earn between £15 and £25 an hour.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

• New bricklayers start at around £15 an hour.
• Skilled and experienced bricklayers earn between £20 and £25 an hour.
• Self-employed bricklayers often earn more because they set their own rates.
• Some self-employed workers charge over £30 an hour for large or special projects.

So, your hourly pay grows as your skills improve. The more experience you gain, the more you can earn in this rewarding trade.

How Do Qualifications and Certifications Boost Earnings?

Let’s look at how the right qualifications can help bricklayers earn more and grow faster in their careers.

1. Professional Qualifications

Getting an NVQ Level 2 in Bricklaying is one of the best ways to start. It proves your skills and shows that you know how to work safely and correctly. With this qualification, you can apply for better jobs and higher pay. You can also get a CSCS Blue or Gold Card, which lets you work on larger building sites and take on more responsibility. Employers often pay more to bricklayers who have these cards.

2. Specialist Skills

Learning specialist skills, such as heritage or restoration work can help you stand out from others. These jobs need extra care and knowledge and they often pay higher rates. You can also take on self-employed projects that require special techniques.

So, the more you train and learn, the more you can earn. Qualifications and skills not only boost your income but also help you build a strong, lasting career.

Final Thoughts: Understanding Bricklayer Earnings in the UK

Bricklaying is a job that gives you pride and good pay. You build things that last for years. It offers steady work and many chances to grow. The more you learn, the more you can earn.

If you want to start, try the Bricklaying Training Course from Open Learning Academy. This course teaches you how to lay bricks safely and the right way. You will learn real skills that help you get good jobs in the future.

So, start today. Learn new skills, build your future, and enjoy a strong career as a bricklayer!

FAQs: Bricklayer Earnings UK

Can bricklayers make 100k?

Most bricklayers don’t earn £100,000 a year, but it’s possible. Skilled or self-employed bricklayers on big projects can reach that level.

How much does a 16-year-old bricklayer get paid?

A 16-year-old bricklayer apprentice earns about £6.30 an hour. After training, pay can rise to around £18–£19 an hour.

Can a bricklayer lay 1000 bricks a day?

A skilled bricklayer can usually lay 300 to 500 bricks a day. In perfect conditions, some may reach close to 1,000.

Are bricklayers well paid?

Yes, bricklayers earn good money. Skilled and self-employed bricklayers often make even more.

Is bricklaying hard?

Yes, bricklaying is tough work. It needs strength, skill, and focus to do it well.