How to Calculate Concrete Measurements
Calculating concrete measurements is a simple volumetric calculation that may require a few conversions (see Tips). Concrete is best calculated by the cubic yard or by fractions of a cubic yard. Having a calculator handy will make these calculations easier.
Things You Will Need
- Calculator
- Tape measure
- Scratch paper
- Pen or pencil
Tip
1 cubic foot = 1,728 cubic inches 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
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Find the area of the planned concrete slab by measuring the length and the width of the available space for the slab. Multiply these two measurements together (length x width).
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Determine the desired thickness of the slab. A 4-inch thickness is plenty for most applications. If you plan on pouring a slab that will be used to store really heavy items, such as an RV, a 6-inch thickness would be advisable.
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Multiply the area by the desired thickness [(length x width) x thickness]. It is easiest to begin with inches and convert them to cubic yards. For example: Length = 112 inches Width = 94 inches Thickness = 4 inches [(length x width) x thickness] = (112 x 94) x 4 = 10,528 x 4 = 42,112 cubic inches
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Divide the number of cubic inches by 1 cubic foot to find the number of cubic feet: 42,112 / 1,728 = 24.37 cubic feet
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Divide 1 cubic yard into the number of cubic feet: 24.37 / 27 = .9026 cubic yards Call your local concrete supplier and order this amount of concrete for your project.
The Drip Cap
- Calculating concrete measurements is a simple volumetric calculation that may require a few conversions (see Tips).
- If you plan on pouring a slab that will be used to store really heavy items, such as an RV, a 6-inch thickness would be advisable.
- Multiply the area by the desired thickness [(length x width) x thickness].
- It is easiest to begin with inches and convert them to cubic yards.
Writer Bio
Josh surprisingly found himself as an English Literature major one day after planning on becoming a doctor for most of his life. He graduated with a BS from Utah Valley University in April 2003.
Photo Credits
- http://www.renovation-headquarters.com/images7/square%20concrete%20pad%20cr.jpg
- http://www.renovation-headquarters.com/images7/square%20concrete%20pad%20cr.jpg
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