How to use it
- Enter length in feet.
- Enter width in feet.
- Enter thickness in inches.
- Read cubic yards, bags, and cubic feet results.
What it does – The Quikrete Estimator takes the dimensions you input (length, width, thickness) and instantly shows three concrete quantities: cubic feet, cubic yards, and the number of 80‑lb bags needed. Why it matters – Ordering the right amount avoids costly over‑buying and prevents shortfalls that delay projects. Reading the results – Cubic feet is the raw volume of your slab or footings. Divide that number by 27 to see cubic yards, the unit most suppliers quote. Divide cubic feet by 0.6 to see how many 80‑lb bags to order; round up to the next whole bag. Example – A 10 ft × 10 ft patio 4 in thick yields 33.3 ft³, 1.24 yd³, and about 56 bags. Use the calculator to verify any size before you call the supplier. The tool also helps you factor in a typical 10% waste allowance, ensuring you have enough material for cuts and spillage. Simply multiply the bag count by 1.1 and round up. Keep this estimate handy when comparing quotes from local mixers.
Pro tips
- Add a 10% waste allowance to the bag count to cover cuts and spillage.
- Always round up the bag total; you can’t order a fraction of a bag.
- Order in full pallets when possible to reduce delivery fees.
- Convert thickness from inches to feet (divide by 12) before entering.
Real-life examples
- A homeowner plans a 12 ft × 15 ft concrete patio 5 in thick and needs material quantities.
- A contractor quotes a small commercial slab and wants an accurate bag count for budgeting.
- A DIY gardener builds a raised flower bed and wants to know how many bags to purchase.
Case study
Mike needed a 12 ft × 14 ft driveway 5 in thick. He entered the dimensions, got 38 ft³, 1.4 yd³ and 64 bags. Adding a 10% waste factor, he ordered 71 bags, avoided a second delivery, and completed the job on schedule.