Rebar Spacing & Quantity Calculator

Linear feet of rebar needed for a slab grid, given dimensions and on-center spacing.

Inputs

Common: 12 in for residential slabs, 18 in for sidewalks.

Length lost where rebar pieces overlap; doubled if you have many splices.

Result

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How to use this calculator

  • Enter slab length and width.
  • Set the on-center spacing (typically 12-18 in).
  • Adjust overlap if your slab spans more than one rebar length (rebar comes in 20-ft sticks typically).

About this calculator

A rebar grid for a slab needs one bar at each spacing interval in both directions, plus one at the edges. The overlap accounts for splice length where two pieces meet (typically 40 × bar diameter, or 1-2 ft for #4/#5 bar). Add waste yourself when you order — 5-10% covers cut-offs.

Frequently asked

What is "on-center" spacing?+
The distance from the center of one bar to the center of the next. 12" O.C. means a bar every 12 inches.
How thick of a rebar do I need?+
#3 (⅜") for thin slabs and patios. #4 (½") for driveways and standard slabs. #5 (⅝") for foundations and structural slabs. Always check engineering specs for structural work.
Should I tie or weld the bars?+
Tie. Welding rebar can change its tensile properties and is rarely allowed without an engineer signing off.
How much overlap is required at splices?+
A common rule of thumb is 40 × bar diameter — about 20 inches for #4 bar, 25 inches for #5. Local codes can vary.
Do I need rebar for a 4-inch patio?+
For a non-structural pad, welded wire mesh is often used instead and is faster. Rebar is needed for driveways under heavy load and structural slabs.

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