Concrete Calculator Software
Slabs, Square Footings, or Walls
Concrete Volume Unit Conversions: Cubic Feet, Yards, Meters, and Liters
| Unit Conversion | Equivalent Value |
|---|---|
| 1 cubic foot (ft³) | 0.0283168 cubic meters (m³) |
| 1 cubic meter (m³) | 35.3147 cubic feet (ft³) |
| 1 cubic yard (yd³) | 0.764555 cubic meters (m³) |
| 1 cubic meter (m³) | 1.30795 cubic yards (yd³) |
| 1 cubic foot (ft³) | 0.037037 cubic yards (yd³) |
| 1 liter (L) | 0.001 cubic meters (m³) |
| 1 cubic meter (m³) | 1,000 liters (L) |
In this page, we’ll explore the different shapes of concrete volume calculators available and provide practical examples to help you get the most accurate estimate for your project.
Slabs, Square Footings, or Walls Concrete Calculator
The Slabs, Square Footings, or Walls Concrete Calculator is ideal for projects involving rectangular or square surfaces. Whether you’re constructing a patio, floor, or wall, this calculator ensures you get precise measurements for your concrete requirements.
Formula:
- L = Length
- W = Width
- H = Height or thickness
Example Calculation:
If you’re pouring a slab that’s 20 feet long, 10 feet wide, and 4 inches (0.33 feet) thick:
Convert this to cubic yards:
You would need approximately 2.44 cubic yards of concrete for this slab.
Hole, Column, or Round Footings Concrete Calculator
This calculator is designed to help estimate concrete volume for circular structures such as columns, round footings, or post holes. These calculations are crucial for projects that involve cylindrical shapes, such as supporting columns or deep round footings.
Formula:
- D = Diameter
- H = Height
Example Calculation:
For a column with a diameter of 4 feet and a height of 8 feet:
Convert to cubic yards:
Circular Slab or Tube Concrete Calculator
For cylindrical slabs or hollow tubes, such as piping or columns with a hollow center, this calculator provides an accurate estimate. This type of calculator is often used for construction projects involving tubes, pipes, or hollow columns.
Formula:
- D1 = Outer diameter
- D2 = Inner diameter
- H = Height
Example Calculation:
For a hollow tube with an outer diameter of 5 feet, an inner diameter of 3 feet, and a height of 10 feet:
Convert to cubic yards:
Curb and Gutter Barrier Concrete Calculator
This calculator is especially useful for estimating the concrete required for curbs and gutter barriers, typically used in road or sidewalk construction. The calculations include both the curb and gutter volume, giving an accurate estimate for both sections.
Formula:
- Curb Volume:
- Gutter Volume:
Example Calculation:
For a curb that is 6 inches deep, 12 inches tall, with a gutter width of 10 inches, and a length of 40 feet:
Total volume:
Convert to cubic yards:
Stairs Concrete Calculator
The Stairs Concrete Calculator is used to estimate the concrete required for constructing stairs, including platforms if applicable. It takes into account the run, rise, and width of each step, as well as the number of steps.
Formula:
Example Calculation:
For a set of stairs with a run of 12 inches, a rise of 7 inches, a width of 4 feet, and 5 steps:
Adding the platform with a depth of 3 feet:
Total volume:
Convert to cubic yards:
High-Authority Resources for Concrete Volume Calculation
- Concrete Network – Comprehensive guide on concrete calculations.
- Quikrete – Estimate concrete mix for different applications.
- CEMEX – User-friendly concrete volume calculator for various projects.
- Ready Mix USA – Specialized calculator for ready-mix concrete.
- Builder’s Calculator – Estimates concrete volume for slabs, footings, and more.
FAQs
General Concrete Volume FAQs
How do I calculate concrete volume for a slab?
To calculate concrete volume for a slab, multiply the length, width, and thickness (in feet) to get cubic feet. Convert cubic feet to cubic yards by dividing by 27 (since 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet). For example, a 10×10 slab at 4 inches thick requires 1.23 cubic yards of concrete.
What’s the formula to calculate concrete for footings or walls?
For footings or walls, use the formula: Length × Width × Height (all in feet). Convert the result to cubic yards by dividing by 27. For irregular shapes, break the structure into smaller rectangular sections, calculate each, and sum the volumes.
How much concrete do I need for a 10×10 slab?
For a 10×10 slab at 4 inches thick, the volume is 10 × 10 × (4/12) = 33.33 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 33.33 ÷ 27 = 1.23 cubic yards. Always add 5–10% extra for waste or spillage.
How to convert cubic feet to cubic yards for concrete?
To convert cubic feet to cubic yards, divide the total cubic feet by 27. For example, 100 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 3.7 cubic yards. This conversion is essential because concrete is typically sold by the cubic yard.
How much does a cubic yard of concrete cover?
One cubic yard of concrete covers 81 square feet at 4 inches thick. For a 6-inch thickness, it covers 54 square feet. Always check the thickness of your project to determine coverage accurately.
Do I need to account for waste when ordering concrete?
Yes, it’s recommended to add 5–10% extra concrete to account for spillage, uneven surfaces, or errors in measurement. For example, if your calculation is 2 cubic yards, order 2.1–2.2 cubic yards to be safe.
Slabs, Square Footings, or Walls
How thick should a concrete slab be?
For patios or walkways, 4 inches is standard. Driveways and garages typically require 6 inches for heavy loads. Always consult local building codes, as requirements may vary based on climate and usage.
How to calculate concrete for a 4-inch slab?
Multiply the length and width (in feet) by the thickness (4 inches = 0.33 feet). For example, a 20×20 slab: 20 × 20 × 0.33 = 132 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 132 ÷ 27 = 4.89 cubic yards.
What’s the concrete volume for a 20×20 slab?
For a 20×20 slab at 4 inches thick, the volume is 20 × 20 × (4/12) = 133.33 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 133.33 ÷ 27 = 4.94 cubic yards. Add 5–10% extra for waste.
How to adjust calculations for irregularly shaped slabs?
Break the slab into smaller rectangles or squares, calculate the volume for each section, and sum them. For curved areas, approximate the shape as a rectangle or use a concrete calculator for irregular shapes.
How much concrete do I need for a footer or foundation wall?
Measure the length, width, and height of the footer or wall in feet. Multiply these dimensions to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. For example, a 30-foot wall that’s 1 foot wide and 2 feet tall requires 2.22 cubic yards.
Holes, Columns, or Round Footings
How to calculate concrete for a round column or sonotube?
Use the formula: π × (Radius)² × Height. For example, a 12-inch diameter column (6-inch radius) that’s 4 feet tall: 3.14 × (0.5)² × 4 = 3.14 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 3.14 ÷ 27 = 0.12 cubic yards.
How much concrete for a 12-inch diameter hole?
For a 12-inch diameter hole (6-inch radius) that’s 4 feet deep: 3.14 × (0.5)² × 4 = 3.14 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 3.14 ÷ 27 = 0.12 cubic yards. Adjust for multiple holes by multiplying the result.
What’s the concrete volume for a fence post hole?
A typical 6-inch diameter fence post hole (3-inch radius) that’s 2 feet deep requires: 3.14 × (0.25)² × 2 = 0.39 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 0.39 ÷ 27 = 0.014 cubic yards per hole.
How to estimate concrete for pier footings?
Measure the diameter and depth of each pier footing. Use the formula: π × (Radius)² × Depth. Sum the volumes for all footings and convert to cubic yards by dividing by 27.
Circular Slabs or Tubes
How to calculate concrete for a circular slab?
Use the formula: π × (Radius)² × Thickness. For example, a 10-foot diameter slab (5-foot radius) at 6 inches thick: 3.14 × (5)² × 0.5 = 39.25 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 39.25 ÷ 27 = 1.45 cubic yards.
How much concrete for a 20-foot diameter circular patio?
For a 20-foot diameter patio (10-foot radius) at 4 inches thick: 3.14 × (10)² × (4/12) = 104.67 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 104.67 ÷ 27 = 3.88 cubic yards.
What’s the difference between a circular slab and tube volume?
A circular slab is a solid disc, while a tube is hollow. For a tube, subtract the inner volume from the outer volume. Use the formula: π × (Outer Radius² – Inner Radius²) × Height.
Curb and Gutter
How to calculate concrete for curb and gutter?
Measure the length of the curb and gutter. Multiply by the cross-sectional area (typically provided by the manufacturer or local standards). Convert the result to cubic yards by dividing by 27.
What’s the standard cross-section size for residential curbs?
Residential curbs are typically 6 inches wide and 18 inches tall. The cross-sectional area is 0.75 square feet. Multiply this by the length to get the volume in cubic feet.
How much concrete for 100 feet of curb and gutter?
For a standard curb (0.75 square feet cross-section), 100 feet requires: 0.75 × 100 = 75 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 75 ÷ 27 = 2.78 cubic yards.
Barriers (Retaining Walls, etc.)
How to estimate concrete for a retaining wall?
Measure the length, height, and thickness of the wall. Multiply these dimensions to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. For example, a 20-foot wall that’s 3 feet tall and 1 foot thick requires 2.22 cubic yards.
Do I need to include rebar volume in calculations?
Rebar volume is negligible and doesn’t significantly affect concrete calculations. Focus on the dimensions of the structure itself and add 5–10% extra for waste.
How much concrete for a 10-foot-long barrier wall?
For a 10-foot wall that’s 2 feet tall and 1 foot thick: 10 × 2 × 1 = 20 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 20 ÷ 27 = 0.74 cubic yards.
Stairs
How to calculate concrete for stairs?
Calculate the volume of each step (Riser height × Tread depth × Width) and multiply by the number of steps. Add the volume of the landing (if any). Sum all volumes and convert to cubic yards.
How much concrete for 5 steps with a landing?
For 5 steps (each 7 inches high, 11 inches deep, and 4 feet wide) and a 4×4-foot landing:
Steps: 5 × (7/12) × (11/12) × 4 = 10.65 cubic feet.
Landing: 4 × 4 × (6/12) = 8 cubic feet.
Total: 18.65 ÷ 27 = 0.69 cubic yards.
What’s the average concrete volume for outdoor stairs?
Outdoor stairs typically require 0.5–1 cubic yard of concrete, depending on the number of steps, riser height, tread depth, and width. Always measure each step individually for accuracy.
Tools and Advanced Questions
Are online concrete calculators accurate?
Online concrete calculators are generally accurate if you input correct dimensions. However, always double-check calculations manually or consult a professional for complex projects.
How to use a concrete volume calculator for multiple shapes?
Break the project into individual shapes (rectangles, circles, etc.), calculate each volume separately, and sum the results. Many online calculators allow you to input multiple shapes and combine volumes.
What’s the best free concrete calculator app?
Popular free apps include ConcreteCalc Pro and Construction Calculator. These apps allow you to input dimensions for slabs, footings, walls, and more, and automatically convert volumes to cubic yards.
How to calculate concrete cost per cubic yard?
Multiply the total cubic yards by the cost per cubic yard (typically $125–$150 in the U.S.). For example, 5 cubic yards at $130 per yard costs $650. Include delivery fees if applicable.
How to adjust for slopes or uneven terrain in concrete volume?
Measure the average depth of the slab or footing by taking multiple depth readings across the area. Use the average depth in your volume calculations to account for slopes or uneven terrain.
Material-Specific FAQs
Does gravel or base material affect concrete volume?
Gravel or base material is not included in concrete volume calculations. These materials are used as a sub-base and do not impact the amount of concrete needed for the slab or structure.
How to calculate concrete bags (60lb, 80lb) needed?
One 60lb bag yields 0.45 cubic feet, and one 80lb bag yields 0.6 cubic feet. Divide the total cubic feet by the yield per bag to determine the number of bags needed. For example, 100 cubic feet ÷ 0.45 = 222 bags (60lb).
How much concrete for a 400 sq ft garage floor?
For a 400 sq ft garage floor at 6 inches thick: 400 × (6/12) = 200 cubic feet. Convert to cubic yards: 200 ÷ 27 = 7.41 cubic yards. Add 5–10% extra for waste.
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