Concrete Volume Calculator

Plan Your Concrete Project Accurately

This calculator is an essential tool for any construction or DIY project involving concrete. It helps you calculate the required volume of concrete for common shapes like slabs, footings, and cylindrical columns. By providing accurate volume estimates in cubic yards, it helps you order the right amount of material and avoid waste.

The Volume Formulas Explained

• Slab/Footing (Rectangular Prism): Volume = Length * Width * Depth
• Column (Cylinder): Volume = π * Radius² * Height The calculator takes inputs in inches and converts the final volume from cubic inches to cubic yards (1 cubic yard = 46,656 cubic inches).

How to Use the Calculator

1. Select Shape: Choose the tab for the shape you are pouring (Slab, Footing, or Column).
2. Enter Dimensions: Input the required dimensions for that shape in inches.
3. Calculate: The tool will display the required volume of concrete in cubic yards.

Real-World Example

You are pouring a circular concrete column that is 12 inches in diameter and 96 inches (8 feet) tall.

1. Select the 'Column' tab.
2. Diameter: 12 inches (so Radius = 6 inches)
3. Height: 96 inches

• Calculation: Volume = π * 6² * 96 ≈ 10,857 cubic inches
• Conversion: 10,857 / 46,656 ≈ 0.23 cubic yards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Why is concrete measured in cubic yards? Cubic yards is the standard unit of volume for ordering ready-mix concrete from a supplier.
• Should I order extra? Yes. It is standard practice to add 5-10% to your calculated volume to account for uneven ground, spills, and to ensure you don't run out before the job is finished.
• How many bags of pre-mix concrete do I need? The amount of concrete per bag varies. For reference:
  • An 80-lb bag yields about 0.60 cubic feet.
  • A 60-lb bag yields about 0.45 cubic feet. (1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet). For the 0.23 cubic yards example above, you would need 0.23 * 27 / 0.6 ≈ 11 of the 80-lb bags.