How Much Concrete Do I Need?
The amount of concrete you need depends on the shape and dimensions of your pour. For a rectangular slab, multiply length x width x thickness to get volume. Our calculator converts that to cubic yards, which is how concrete is sold and delivered.
Slab Thickness Guidelines
Standard sidewalks and patios use 4 inches of concrete. Driveways should be at least 4-6 inches thick. Garage floors and areas with vehicle traffic need a minimum of 6 inches. Always check local building codes for your specific application.
Ready-Mix vs. Bags
For pours under 1 cubic yard, bagged concrete (Quikrete, Sakrete) is cost-effective. For larger pours, order ready-mix from a local batch plant. A standard ready-mix truck carries about 10 cubic yards. Most companies have a minimum order of 1 yard with short-load fees for orders under their minimum.
Waste Factor
Always order 5-10% more concrete than your calculated amount. This accounts for uneven subgrade, spillage during pouring, and slight variations in form dimensions. For footings and irregular shapes, increase the waste factor to 10-15%.