Concrete Volume Calculator UK | Estimate Ready-Mix, Bags & Cost
Enter dimensions & thickness to calculate area, volume, and weight.
Ready-Mix Concrete Calculator Guide
Figure out how much ready-mix concrete to order for slabs, footings, pads, and driveways. This guide matches your SmartBuildCalc calculator and explains the results, waste allowance, and ordering tips.
When and Why to Use Ready-Mix
- Speed & consistency: Factory-batched mixes pour fast and cure predictably.
- Strength on spec: Order by strength class (e.g., C20/25, C25/30) for structural work.
- Less mess onsite: Skip hand-mixing fatigue and uneven batches.
Heads-up: Plan access for the truck or a pump. Tight sites often need a line pump or barrow runs.
How the Calculator Works
The calculator finds area, then multiplies by thickness to get volume. It also estimates weight using a typical concrete density of 2400 kg/m³ (≈ 2.4 t per m³).
Add 5–10% for waste, ground variation, and spillage.
| Output | What it Means |
|---|---|
| Area (m² / ft²) | Surface footprint of the pour based on shape and dimensions. |
| Volume (m³ / yd³) | Order quantity for ready-mix. |
| Weight (t) | Approximate mass of concrete — useful for logistics and reinforcement planning. |
Example Calculation
Rectangle slab: 5.0 m × 4.0 m at 150 mm (0.15 m)
Typical Thickness & Use-Cases
| Application | Typical Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Garden/Patio Slab | 100–125 mm | Use suitable sub-base and compaction. |
| Driveway (cars) | 125–150 mm | Consider mesh or fibres; check ground conditions. |
| Garage/Workshop | 125–150 mm | Higher strength mix recommended. |
| Footings (strip) | Design-led | Depth/width per engineer or local building control. |
Ordering & Site Prep
- Confirm truck access, turnaround, and overhead clearance.
- Have tamping/screeding tools ready; set datum/levels before the truck arrives.
- Place control joints where needed; cure with plastic sheeting or curing compound.
Average UK Costs (Guide Only)
| Item / Service | Typical Price (ex. VAT) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ready-mix concrete (per m³) | £100 – £170+ | Depends on strength class, additives, region. |
| Short-load / part-load fee | £25 – £60+ | Charged below minimum delivery volume. |
| Pump hire (line/boom) | £250 – £600 | Distance, setup, and duration vary. |
| Mesh reinforcement (A142/A193) | £25 – £55 per sheet | Check spacing and cover requirements. |
Regional variation applies. Always get a current quote from local suppliers.
Tools & Materials
- Laser level / datum stakes
- Aluminium screed bar / straight edge
- Concrete rake & finishing float
- Mesh or fibre reinforcement
- PPE (gloves, boots, eye protection)
Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links that may earn SmartBuildCalc a small commission at no extra cost to you.
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Before You Go
Plan the pour route, confirm barrow runs or pump setup, and protect fresh concrete from rain and rapid drying. Keep curing simple: cover for at least 24 hours and avoid heavy loads for a week.
Calculator outputs are estimates. Confirm final quantities and mix class with your supplier.
