Concrete Calculator — Yards, Bags & Cost
Calculate concrete volume for slabs, footings, and columns. Get cubic yards, 60 lb and 80 lb bag counts, and estimated cost with a waste factor.
Typical: 5–10% for slabs, 10–15% for complex shapes.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a yard of concrete cost?
Ready-mix concrete delivered runs about $120–$180 per cubic yard in 2026, with most US markets near $150. Short-load fees (typically $80–$150) apply to orders under 5 cubic yards. Bagged concrete from a home center costs more per yard but is the only practical option for jobs under about half a yard.
How thick should a concrete driveway be?
4 inches is standard for residential driveways with normal car traffic. Thicken to 5–6 inches if you'll regularly park a heavy truck, RV, or boat. The subgrade matters as much as thickness — compacted gravel base, proper drainage, and reinforcement (rebar or wire mesh) keep concrete from cracking far better than extra thickness alone.
Bags or ready-mix?
Ready-mix delivered makes sense above about 0.5 cubic yards (about 28 80-lb bags). For small footings, post holes, or repair work, bags are cheaper and more flexible. Mixing bags by hand is slow and tiring — for anything over 10 bags, rent a small mixer.
How long does concrete take to cure?
Concrete reaches roughly 70% of its strength in 7 days and 99% in 28 days. You can typically walk on it at 24 hours, drive a car on it at 7 days, and put it under full load (truck, RV) at 28 days. Curing in dry, hot, or freezing conditions requires extra care — keep the surface moist for the first week.
Can I pour concrete in cold weather?
Yes, but with precautions. Below about 40°F, fresh concrete cures more slowly and is at risk of freezing before it gains strength. Use a cold-weather admixture, warm water in the mix, and insulating blankets over the surface for 24–48 hours. Never pour onto frozen ground.