So, you’re staring at your garden or driveway thinking, “A nice brick wall would sort this out.” Maybe you need something to separate your property, hold back a slope, or just make your exterior look a bit more polished. Then comes the thought, “Could I just do it myself?”
Let’s stop you right there.
Building a proper exterior brick wall isn’t like putting together flat-pack furniture. It takes skill, the right materials, and an understanding of how bricks, mortar, and the great British weather work together. That’s where professional exterior brick wall contractors come in, and why hiring one is almost always money well spent.
Here’s why going pro will save you time, money, and a lot of frustration in the long run.
1. Quality and Craftsmanship You Can See
A brick wall might look simple, but it’s far more technical than most people realise. The bond pattern, mortar mix, alignment, and finish all matter. One small mistake and you’ll notice it every time you step outside.
Professional brick wall contractors know how to:
- Lay bricks evenly so the wall stays straight and sturdy
- Mix mortar that holds up through years of rain and frost
- Match colours and textures for a clean, consistent finish
When it’s done right, you can tell immediately. Straight lines, tight joints, and a professional finish that looks like it belongs on your property.
Pro tip: Ask to see examples of past projects. Skilled contractors will proudly show you their portfolio filled with crisp, level brickwork.
2. Built to Last Through British Weather
Let’s be honest, our weather isn’t exactly gentle. Rain, frost, and the odd heatwave all take a toll on exterior walls.
Professional contractors build walls with proper footing depth, mortar strength, and expansion joints so the bricks don’t crack or shift over time. They also know when to recommend reinforced foundations or drainage for heavier or retaining walls.
DIY jobs often skip these steps, which can lead to:
- Cracks after the first frost
- Leaning walls due to shallow foundations
- Water damage and mould forming in the structure
A properly built wall should last decades. Some of the best brickwork in the UK has been standing strong for over a century, and that’s because it was done right from the start.
3. Proper Drainage Makes All the Difference
Here’s something most DIY builders forget: water is the enemy of brickwork. Rain and groundwater can slowly weaken a wall if it isn’t designed to drain properly.
Professional exterior brick wall contractors know how to prevent that. They’ll ensure:
- Water runs away from the wall base, not towards it
- Weep holes or drainage channels are in the right places
- The foundation and backfill support the wall and let water escape
Ignore drainage and you’ll soon see cracks, discolouration, and white salt marks (efflorescence) creeping across your lovely new wall. It’s not pretty, and it’s expensive to fix later.
4. Better Insulation and Energy Efficiency
If you’re adding a wall as part of an extension or outbuilding, insulation matters more than you think. Well-built brickwork helps regulate temperature, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Professionals understand how to build cavity walls with proper air gaps and insulation layers that meet building regulations. They’ll use the right materials to reduce heat loss and stop damp from forming.
A DIY job might look decent from the outside but can cause problems later with cold spots, condensation, or heat escaping through poor construction.
5. The Real Brick Wall Contractors Cost
Let’s talk money. The brick wall contractors cost varies depending on the size, design, and type of bricks you choose, but here’s a rough guide to give you an idea.
| Type of Brick Wall | Average Cost (excl. VAT) | Notes |
| Small garden wall (low boundary) | £800 – £1,500 | Decorative or light separation |
| Medium wall (standard boundary) | £1,500 – £3,000 | Typical domestic project |
| Retaining wall | £2,000 – £5,000+ | Includes structural support and drainage |
| Brick extension wall | £3,000 – £6,000+ | Includes insulation and detailed finish |
These prices usually include:
- Skilled labour and high-quality materials
- Excavation, foundations, and drainage
- Mortar, pointing, and clean-up
- Waste removal and site preparation
It might sound like a lot, but a professionally built wall will stand for decades with minimal maintenance. Go cheap or DIY it, and you might be paying twice when it needs repairing or rebuilding.
Pro tip: Always get an itemised quote. A good contractor will clearly outline material, labour, and optional extras so there are no surprises later.
6. Boosting Property Value and Kerb Appeal
A well-built brick wall doesn’t just look good; it adds real value. Estate agents often point out quality brickwork as a selling feature because it shows care and craftsmanship.
It improves the overall aesthetic of your property, creates structure in your outdoor space, and gives your home that solid, finished feel.
Even if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon, a neat, professional wall is something you’ll appreciate every single day.
7. DIY vs Professional: What’s Really Worth It
Let’s be honest, you could probably stack some bricks and call it a wall. But a straight, level, weatherproof wall that lasts years? That’s another story.
DIY might be fine for small planters or decorative edges, but if your wall needs to support weight, handle drainage, or stay up through winter, hire a pro.
Here’s what you get with professionals:
- Years of real-world experience
- Access to specialist tools and materials
- Compliance with building and safety regulations
- Workmanship guarantees for peace of mind
Sure, doing it yourself might save a bit upfront, but when the wall starts leaning or cracking, you’ll wish you’d called in the experts.
Final Thoughts: Built Once, Built Right
A brick wall might not seem complicated, but the difference between a weekend DIY job and a professional build is night and day. It’s about quality, longevity, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing it’s been done properly.
Hiring exterior brick wall contractors isn’t just about convenience. It’s about investing in something that adds durability, insulation, and long-term value to your property.
To sum up:
- Professional bricklayers guarantee strength and precision
- Proper drainage prevents costly water damage
- Insulation improves energy efficiency
- A quality wall adds instant kerb appeal and resale value
Spend wisely at the start and you’ll have a brick wall that looks great, performs brilliantly, and stands strong for decades.