Cement Calculator

Calculate concrete volume, materials, and costs for any construction project.

Project Dimensions

Standard slab: 4 inches

Concrete Mix Details

Recommended: 3000 PSI

%

10% is standard

Cost Factors

Concrete Requirements

Total Volume

2.72 yd³

Including 10% waste

Bags Needed

123

80 lb bags

Total Cost

$1500.85

$7.50/sq ft

Material Details

Coverage Area200.0 sq ft
Volume (no waste)2.47 yd³
Total Weight5.5 tons
Water Needed92.3 gallons

Cost Breakdown

Material Cost$1100.85
Labor$400.00
Total Cost$1500.85

Bulk vs Bags Comparison

Bagged Concrete
$1100.85
123 bags @ $8.95
Bulk Ready-Mix
$407.41
Saves $693.44

Consider bulk delivery for this project - you'll save $693.44 and reduce labor!

How it works

A cement calculator estimates the volume of concrete (cement, sand, aggregate, and water) for a pour, then the bags or materials needed. Volume is length × width × depth; you convert to cubic yards and apply the mix ratio.

Volume to material

Cubic feet = length × width × depth        Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27
length, width
area dimensions in feet
depth
thickness in feet

Worked example

  • Pad 8 ft × 6 ft
  • 5 inches deep = 0.417 ft
  1. Cubic feet = 8 × 6 × 0.417 = 20.0
  2. Cubic yards = 20.0 ÷ 27

≈ 0.74 cubic yards of concrete.

Good to know

  • Cement is the binder; concrete is the finished mix of cement, aggregate, and water.
  • A typical 80-lb bag of pre-mix yields about 0.6 cubic feet.
  • Order a little extra — running short mid-pour leaves a cold joint.

Related Calculators

Frequently Asked Questions

How much extra material should I order?

Add 5-10% for simple projects, 10-15% for complex cuts or patterns. Tile and flooring often need 15% extra for future repairs.

When do I need building permits?

Most structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, and major renovations require permits. Check with your local building department.

Should I hire professionals or DIY?

Consider your skill level, time availability, and project complexity. Structural, electrical, and plumbing work often require licensed professionals.

How much extra material to order?

Add 5-10% for simple projects, 10-15% for complex patterns. Some materials need extra for future repairs.

When are permits required?

Most structural changes, electrical, and plumbing work need permits. Check with local building department.

DIY or hire professionals?

Consider skill level, time, and complexity. Structural, electrical, and plumbing often require licensed pros.

How to estimate timeline?

Research typical durations, add buffer for weather/delays, consider drying times, and be realistic about work hours.