PROJECT GUIDE
Concrete Patio Calculator
Planning a concrete patio starts with three measurements: length, width and slab thickness. Use the concrete calculator to turn those measurements into cubic yards, then review the project notes before ordering.
Step 1: measure the patio area
Measure the patio length and width in feet. If the patio is not a simple rectangle, divide it into rectangles, calculate each section and add the areas. Keep a sketch with the measurements so you can check the numbers later.
Step 2: choose the planned thickness
Enter the thickness specified for your project. Do not choose a structural thickness from a generic calculator alone. Patio construction can depend on soil, reinforcement, climate, drainage and local requirements.
Step 3: convert volume to cubic yards
The basic formula is length × width × thickness in feet. The result is cubic feet. Divide by 27 to get cubic yards. The calculator can then apply an allowance so the planning quantity is slightly above the mathematical volume.
Example patio estimate
A 12 ft × 10 ft patio has 120 square feet. At 4 inches thick, the basic volume is about 40 cubic feet, or 1.48 cubic yards. The actual order should be rounded according to the ready-mix supplier’s requirements and the project conditions.
Before ordering
Confirm the final dimensions, access for delivery, concrete mix requirements, finishing plan and supplier minimums. For any structural or code-related question, use the project plans and qualified local advice rather than an online estimate.
Use the calculator
Ready to run the numbers? Use the BuildPlanTools calculator, then compare the estimate with the product label, supplier information and project requirements.
These estimates are for general planning. Product specifications, site conditions, local requirements and professional recommendations should take priority where applicable.