Concrete Volume Calculator

Cubic yards of concrete for a rectangular slab/footing OR a cylindrical column/sonotube — with waste factor.

Inputs

Slab math: L·W·D. Column math: π·(d/2)²·D.

8", 10", 12" sonotubes are most common.

Slabs: 4" patios, 4-6" driveways, 8-12" footings. Columns/piers: total depth below frost line, often 36-48".

Standard 5-10% buffer for spillage and uneven sub-grade.

Result

Concrete needed
1.36 yd³
36.67 cubic feet (with 10% waste). Rectangular slab.
  • Pour shapeRectangular (10×10 ft)
  • Pure volume1.235 yd³ (33.33 ft³)
  • Waste buffer10%
  • Order quantity1.36 yd³
  • 60-lb bags (≈ 0.45 ft³ each)82 bags
  • 80-lb bags (≈ 0.60 ft³ each)62 bags

Step-by-step

  1. Convert depth to feet: 4 in ÷ 12 = 0.333 ft.
  2. Volume = L × W × D = 10 × 10 × 0.333 = 33.33 ft³.
  3. Cubic yards = 33.33 ÷ 27 = 1.235 yd³.
  4. Add 10% waste: 1.235 × 1.10 = 1.36 yd³.

How to use this calculator

  • Enter the length and width of the slab in feet.
  • Enter the depth (slab thickness) in inches — most patios are 4 in, driveways 4-6 in, footings 8-12 in.
  • Adjust the waste factor; 10% is a safe default for residential pours.

About this calculator

Concrete is sold and ordered by the cubic yard. To figure out how much you need, multiply length × width × depth — making sure all three are in the same units — then divide by 27 to convert cubic feet to cubic yards. Adding a small waste factor (5-10% is standard) covers spillage, uneven sub-grades, and the inevitable last-minute "we should pour the front step too".

Frequently asked

Patios and walkways: 4 inches. Driveways for cars: 4 inches. Driveways for trucks/RVs: 5-6 inches. Footings and structural slabs: 8-12 inches. Always check local code for footings.

Related calculators

More tools you might like