The cost to build a brick garage varies widely, but it typically falls within a measurable range based on size, foundation type, and finishes. This guide outlines the current price landscape for a standard attached or detached brick garage in the United States, highlighting typical totals, per‑unit rates, and main cost drivers for budgeting and quotes.
Understanding the cost to build a brick garage helps buyers compare bids, plan scope, and avoid unexpected charges.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total project cost | $40,000 | $60,000 | $110,000 | Assumes a 20’×20′ to 24’×24′ footprint, standard materials, Midwest labor rates. |
| Cost per square foot | $70 | $105 | $175 | Depends on foundation, finishes, doors, and regional labor. |
| Foundation and concrete work | $8,000 | $15,000 | $30,000 | Slab or footings; thicker slabs add cost. |
| Brick and exterior finish | $12,000 | $20,000 | $40,000 | Brick type, bond pattern, and mortar color affect price. |
| Roofing and gutters | $5,000 | $9,000 | $14,000 | Metal or asphalt shingles; alignment with house roof can matter. |
| Doors and windows | $2,500 | $5,000 | $12,000 | Single bay door vs. multiple bays and windows. |
| Labor (construction crew) | $15,000 | $28,000 | $55,000 | Includes carpenters, bricklayers, and the mason crew. |
| Permits and inspections | $500 | $2,000 | $5,000 | Local code reviews and drainage approvals vary by city. |
Typical Total Cost to Build a Brick Garage in the United States
Most projects fall in the $60,000 to $120,000 range for a brick garage around 400–600 square feet, depending on location and finishes. For a smaller 200–300 square foot unit, budgets commonly run $40,000 to $70,000, while larger 800–1,000 square foot structures often exceed $120,000. Regional labor rates, brick type, and the size of doors largely drive the spread.
Assumptions: standard two-car configurations on a slab, mid‑range bricks, and typical access. Per‑unit pricing, when shown, often reflects price per square foot or per finished bay.
Major Cost Components in a Brick Garage Project
A clear quote separates foundation, exterior brickwork, and structural framing from finishing touches. The core cost components usually include foundation, brickwork, structural carpentry, roofing, doors and windows, and trades labor. A typical breakdown helps compare bids precisely and spot where costs can be controlled.
| Cost Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation and slab | $8,000 | $15,000 | $25,000 | Slab type, thickness, reinforcement affect price. |
| Brickwork and mortar | $12,000 | $20,000 | $40,000 | Brick type, bond pattern, and veneer thickness matter. |
| Structural carpentry | $6,000 | $12,000 | $22,000 | Framing, lintels, and roof support. |
| Roofing and insulation | $5,000 | $9,000 | $14,000 | Material choice and insulation level drive cost. |
| Doors and windows | $2,500 | $5,000 | $12,000 | One or more bays, plus specialty hardware. |
| Electrical and lighting | $1,500 | $3,000 | $6,500 | Garage outlets, lighting, and basic panel work. |
| Finishes and interior | $3,000 | $7,000 | $15,000 | Drywall, paint, and storage options. |
| Permits and fees | $500 | $2,000 | $5,000 |
Material Costs: Bricks, Mortar, and Foundations
Brick and foundation choices are the biggest material drivers for a brick garage. Prices depend on brick type (common, face, or special blends), mortar color, bond pattern, and foundation depth. A standard 4-inch to 6-inch brick veneer costs more per square foot than a basic structural brick core; combined with a reinforced slab, the foundation can add substantially to the total.
Expect brick and mortar to range from $12,000 to $40,000 depending on finish and size, with foundations at $8,000 to $25,000 for typical slabs and footings.
Labor and Regional Rates for Brick Garages
Labor costs vary widely by region and crew size. In the U.S., expect regional spreads of roughly 20%–40% between low-wage markets and high-cost urban zones. A midwestern crew may charge toward the lower end, while coastal cities show higher labor figures. Project duration often scales with size, complexity, and access.
Labor for a brick garage typically falls in the $15,000 to $28,000 range for mid‑sized projects, with higher totals when skilled masonry work dominates the schedule.
Size, Doors, and System Type That Drive Price per Square Foot
Footprint and door count are the most predictable price levers on a brick garage. A 400–600 square foot unit with a single 9’×7′ door costs less per square foot than a larger, multi-bay setup. Garages with carriage-style doors, insulation, or attached living space add to the per‑square‑foot figure.
Price per square foot typically ranges from $70 to $175, depending on whether the project emphasizes basic function or premium finishes.
Permits, Inspections, and Code-Driven Fees
Local regulations directly influence the budget through permits and inspections. Permit costs reflect local building codes, drainage requirements, and setbacks. Some jurisdictions require utility tie‑ins or drainage plans, which can add several thousand dollars to the total.
Site Conditions and Foundation Type That Drive Costs
Existing site conditions can push the price up or down. Poor soil, high groundwater, or the need for underpinning drainage systems adds to foundation costs. For sloped lots or tight access areas, crane use or wall reorientation may be necessary, affecting both time and price.
Ways to Reduce Brick Garage Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
Smart scope management and material choices can trim the bill by a meaningful amount. Consider standard brick sizes, base finishes, and fewer premium features. Choosing a slab-on-grade foundation instead of a full basement, batching doors, and bundling electrical work with the main house improvement can yield savings. Compare quotes, schedule a two‑stage build, and avoid upgrades that don’t improve immediate value.
Regional and Timing Considerations
Price volatility can occur with seasonality and contractor availability. Spring and fall often offer better scheduling options and occasional discounts, while peak summer demand may drive faster but pricier crews. If possible, align the project with off-peak windows to reduce labor charges.
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard brick, single-car door configuration, normal site access.