Standard cured concrete is approx 150 lbs/ft³. Lightweight is ~110.
Average ready-mix price varies by region.
Total Concrete Weight
15,000 lbs
7.5 Tons
Total Volume3.70 yd³
80lb Bags Needed188
Estimated Cost$463
Formula Used: Volume (ft³) × Density (150 lbs/ft³) = Total Weight
Mix Component Breakdown (by Weight)
*Approximation based on standard 1:2:3 mix ratio (Cement:Sand:Aggregate)
Estimated Material Requirements for Standard Mix
Material
Weight Fraction
Estimated Weight
What is Concrete Calculator Weight?
Concrete calculator weight is a specialized estimation tool used by engineers, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts to determine the total mass of a concrete pour before construction begins. Unlike simple volume calculators, which only tell you how much space the concrete will fill, a weight calculator is essential for logistical planning.
Understanding the weight is critical for determining whether your truck can haul the load, if your crane can lift the bucket, or if your formwork can withstand the pressure. It is also a vital metric for calculating shipping costs and structural dead loads.
Common misconceptions include assuming all concrete weighs the same. In reality, the density can vary significantly based on the aggregate used (e.g., lightweight volcanic rock vs. heavy iron ore).
Concrete Calculator Weight Formula and Math
To calculate the total weight of a concrete project, we must first determine the volume in cubic feet, and then multiply by the density of the mix.
The Core Formula: Weight = Volume × Density
For a Rectangular Slab: Volume = Length × Width × (Thickness ÷ 12)
(Note: Thickness is divided by 12 to convert inches to feet)
Variable Reference Table
Variable
Meaning
Unit
Typical Range
Volume
Total space occupied
Cubic Feet (ft³)
Varies by project
Density
Mass per unit volume
lbs/ft³
140 – 150 lbs/ft³
Thickness
Depth of the slab
Inches
4″ (sidewalk) to 24″+ (footing)
Key variables used in concrete calculator weight computations
Practical Examples of Concrete Weight Calculation
Example 1: The Backyard Patio
Scenario: You are pouring a standard 10ft x 10ft patio slab that is 4 inches thick. You plan to use standard premix concrete bags.
Financial Interpretation: At 5,000 lbs, you cannot haul this in a standard half-ton pickup truck (payload ~1,500 lbs). You will need multiple trips or a delivery service.
Example 2: Concrete Columns
Scenario: A commercial project requires 4 cylindrical columns. Each is 12 inches in diameter and 10 feet tall.
Radius: 6 inches = 0.5 feet
Volume per Column: π × r² × h = 3.14159 × 0.5² × 10 = 7.85 ft³
Total Volume: 7.85 × 4 columns = 31.4 ft³
Total Weight: 31.4 ft³ × 150 lbs/ft³ = 4,710 lbs
How to Use This Concrete Calculator Weight Tool
Select Shape: Choose between a rectangular slab (patios, driveways) or a cylinder (columns, post holes).
Enter Dimensions: Input length/width or diameter/height. Ensure thickness is in inches for slabs.
Verify Density: The default is 150 lbs/ft³ for standard concrete. If using lightweight concrete, adjust this value lower (e.g., 110 lbs/ft³).
Review Results: The tool instantly provides the total weight in pounds and the required volume in cubic yards.
Check Material Needs: See how many 80lb bags you would need if mixing manually.
Key Factors That Affect Concrete Calculator Weight Results
When calculating concrete calculator weight, several external factors can influence your final numbers and project success:
Aggregate Type: Normal weight concrete uses stone/gravel (~145 lbs/ft³). Lightweight concrete uses shale or clay (~100-115 lbs/ft³). Heavyweight concrete uses steel or iron (~400 lbs/ft³).
Water Content: Excess water increases volume initially but evaporates, potentially leading to shrinkage. However, wet concrete weighs more during the pour than dry concrete.
Reinforcement (Rebar): Steel is much denser than concrete (490 lbs/ft³). Heavily reinforced structures will weigh significantly more than the calculator estimates.
Spillage & Waste: Professionals typically order 5-10% extra to account for uneven subgrades and spillage. This increases the billable weight.
Delivery Fees: Many suppliers have a "short load" fee for orders under a certain weight (e.g., under 4 cubic yards).
Formwork Pressure: The weight of wet concrete exerts lateral pressure on forms. A higher calculated weight requires stronger bracing to prevent blowouts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does a yard of concrete weigh?
A standard cubic yard of concrete weighs approximately 4,050 lbs (approx 2 tons). This assumes a standard density of 150 lbs/ft³.
Does wet concrete weigh more than dry concrete?
Yes, slightly. Wet concrete contains water that has not yet reacted or evaporated. However, for structural calculations, the cured weight is often used as the "dead load."
How many 80lb bags are in a yard?
It takes approximately 45 bags of 80lb premix to make one cubic yard of concrete. One cubic yard is 27 cubic feet.
Can I transport 1 yard of concrete in my pickup truck?
Likely not. One yard weighs over 4,000 lbs. Most half-ton pickups have a payload capacity of 1,200-1,800 lbs. You would need a heavy-duty (one-ton) truck or a trailer.
What is the density of lightweight concrete?
Lightweight concrete typically ranges from 90 to 115 lbs/ft³, making it about 25-35% lighter than standard mixes.
Does the price of concrete vary by weight?
Concrete is usually sold by volume (cubic yard), not weight. However, the weight determines delivery logistics and shipping costs.
How accurate is this calculator?
It provides a mathematical estimate based on geometric volume and average density. Actual usage may vary due to ground unevenness and waste.
Why do I need to calculate weight for a patio?
Mainly for logistics. Knowing the weight helps you decide whether to buy bags at a store (and how many trips it will take) or pay for a ready-mix truck delivery.