Concrete Column Calculator

How much concrete do I need for a column?

Shape
in
ft
columns

Order this much ready-mix concrete

1.25cubic yards

Concrete quantity only, with 5% extra. Columns carry structural loads, so a licensed engineer or your plans must set size and steel.

10 ft16 in round, 2 columns
Volume with extra29.3 cu ft
Cubic yards1.09
80 lb bags (0.60 cu ft)49
60 lb bags (0.45 cu ft)66
Each column13.96 cu ft
Weight of each column2,094 lb at 150 lb per cu ft

Estimate round or square columns and see how much each one weighs before you plan formwork and lifting.

How it works

Round columns use 3.14 × radius squared × height. Square columns use side × side × height, plus 5%.

Before you order

  • Brace tall forms well, since wet concrete pushes hard against the bottom.
  • Use a vibrator or rod in lifts to avoid honeycomb voids near the base.
  • Columns are structural, so the size and steel have to come from drawings.

Common questions

How much does a concrete column weigh?

At about 150 pounds per cubic foot, a 16 inch round column 10 feet tall weighs about 2,100 pounds.

Can I size a column myself?

Use a licensed engineer or stamped plans for anything carrying a load.