Concrete Volume Calculator
Calculate how much concrete you need for slabs, footings, columns, walls, and stairs. Supports multiple pour sections, bag counts, cost estimates, and adjustable waste factors.
10% is standard for most pours
Results
Volume
4.94
Cubic Yards
With 10% Waste
5.43
Cubic Yards to Order
60 lb Bags
326
bags needed
80 lb Bags
245
bags needed
Ready-Mix vs. Bags: Which Should You Use?
Recommendation: Order Ready-Mix Delivery
At 5.43 cubic yards, ready-mix truck delivery is strongly recommended. Mixing 245 bags by hand would take hours and produce inconsistent results.
Ready-Mix Cost
$896
5.43 yd at $165/yd
Bag Cost (Not Recommended)
$1838 – $2205
245 bags — extreme labor, inconsistent mix
Most ready-mix plants require a 1 yard minimum order. Orders under the truck capacity (10+ yards) are typically delivered in a single load.
Complete Material List
Everything you need for this pour, estimated from your dimensions. Adjust quantities based on your specific project requirements.
Concrete
Rebar (#4 Rebar, 1/2")
Based on 18" on-center grid spacing. Also budget for rebar tie wire and a tie tool.
Welded Wire Mesh (6x6 W1.4/W1.4)
Includes 10% for overlap. Wire mesh is an alternative to rebar for residential slabs 4" or thinner.
Form Boards & Stakes
Stakes placed every 3 feet. Budget for duplex nails or screws to attach forms. 2x4 forms work for slabs up to 4 inches thick.
Additional Supplies
- • Concrete mix water (approx. 1 gallon per 80 lb bag, if using bags)
- • Vapor barrier / plastic sheeting (6 mil poly for slabs on grade)
- • Curing compound or plastic sheeting for curing
- • Expansion joint material (for slabs abutting existing concrete or structures)
- • Release oil or form release agent (for easy form removal)
- • Gravel / crushed stone sub-base (typically 4" compacted base under slabs)
- • Hand tools: screed board, bull float, edger, groover, hand float, trowel
Weather & Curing Advisory
Concrete should not be poured below 40°F or above 90°F. In hot weather, plan for faster set times and consider using ice water in the mix or pouring in early morning. Cold weather requires insulated blankets or heated enclosures and may need accelerating admixtures. Keep concrete moist for at least 7 days for proper curing — use curing compound, wet burlap, or plastic sheeting.
How to Use This Calculator
Select the shape of each pour section. For slabs and footings, enter length and width in feet and depth in inches. For columns/sonotubes, enter diameter and height in inches. For walls, enter length and height in feet and thickness in inches. For stairs, enter the number of steps, rise, run, and width. Add multiple sections for combined pours. Adjust the waste factor (10% is standard) and optionally enter a price per cubic yard for cost estimates.
Formula Used
Slab/Footing: Cu Ft = L x W x (Depth/12). Column: Cu Ft = pi x (D/24)^2 x (H/12). Wall: Cu Ft = L x H x (Thickness/12). Stairs: Sum of each step = Width x Run x (Rise x step#). Cubic Yards = Cu Ft / 27. 80lb bag = 0.6 cu ft, 60lb bag = 0.45 cu ft.
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Disclaimer
This calculator is for estimation purposes only. Results may vary based on local conditions, materials, and building codes. Always consult a licensed professional before making decisions based on these calculations. MyContractorTools is not responsible for any errors or omissions.