How to Calculate Concrete Needed for Your Project
Our free concrete calculator helps you estimate the exact amount of concrete required for your construction project. Whether you're pouring a slab, footing, wall, or column, this tool provides accurate measurements in cubic yards and the number of concrete bags needed.
Recommended Concrete Thickness for Common Projects
- • Driveways: 4-6 inches
- • Sidewalks: 4 inches
- • Patios: 4 inches
- • Foundations: 6-8 inches
- • Garage floors: 4-6 inches
- • Shed bases: 4 inches
Concrete Bag Coverage and Sizes
- • 80 lb bag: 0.6 cubic feet
- • 60 lb bag: 0.45 cubic feet
- • 40 lb bag: 0.3 cubic feet
- • 50 lb bag: 0.375 cubic feet
Concrete Calculation Formula
(Length in feet × Width in feet × (Depth in inches ÷ 12)) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards
For circular columns: (π × Radius² × Height) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards
Always add 5-10% extra for waste and spillage during pouring.
Tips for Ordering Concrete
- • Concrete is typically sold by the cubic yard (27 cubic feet)
- • Ready-mix trucks usually carry between 8-10 cubic yards
- • For small projects, consider bagged concrete mix
- • Always round up your calculations to ensure you have enough
- • Account for subgrade preparation in your project planning