Measure net wall area
Measure each wall elevation and subtract meaningful openings before counting units.
Keep walls with different brick sizes or patterns separate so one average does not hide layout changes.
Use the installed brick module
Brick count depends on the face module created by the brick plus mortar joint, not brick dimensions alone.
Confirm actual product dimensions and specified joint before ordering.
Treat waste as a layout decision
Cuts at corners, openings, bond patterns, breakage, color selection, and future repair stock can justify extra units.
Do not use waste to compensate for an inaccurate wall measurement.
Round to practical purchase units
Calculate individual bricks first, then compare the result with supplier cube or pallet quantities.
Whole-pallet rounding is a purchasing decision rather than part of wall geometry.
Keep structural details separate
Lintels, ties, flashing, reinforcement, backing, and foundations are separate takeoff lines.
Use project documents and manufacturer data for components beyond the visible brick field.