Concrete Foundation Calculator
Estimate concrete for all foundation types — slab-on-grade, footings, stem walls, and monolithic pours.
Foundation Types & Concrete Needs
Each type has different concrete requirements
Slab-on-Grade
A single concrete slab poured directly on prepared ground. Most common for garages, sheds, and homes in warm climates.
Concrete Parts
- Slab (4-6" thick)
- Thickened edges (optional)
- Interior footings (if load-bearing walls)
Thickness
4-6"
Best For
Garages, sheds, patios, warm climates
T-Shaped (Footing + Stem Wall)
Footings poured below frost line with stem walls built up to grade. Standard for homes in cold climates.
Concrete Parts
- Footing (8-12" deep, 16-24" wide)
- Stem wall (8" thick, below-grade)
- Slab floor (4" thick, optional)
Thickness
Footing: 8-12" below frost line
Best For
Homes in freeze-thaw climates
Monolithic Slab
Slab and footing poured together in one monolithic pour. The edges are thickened to act as footings.
Concrete Parts
- Slab field (4-6" thick)
- Thickened perimeter (12-24" deep × 12" wide)
Thickness
Slab: 4-6", Edge: 12-24"
Best For
Metal buildings, garages, workshops
Pier and Beam (Post and Pier)
Concrete piers supporting beams above grade. Minimal concrete compared to full foundations.
Concrete Parts
- Pier footings (18-24" diameter × 12-48" deep)
- Pier columns (if needed)
Thickness
Piers: 18-24" diameter
Best For
Decks, elevated floors, remote locations
Concrete Estimates by Home Size
Approximate concrete needed for common home foundations
| Home Size | Slab-on-Grade | Monolithic | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 800 sqft (cottage) | 10-12 yd³ | 12-15 yd³ | $2,000-$3,500 |
| 1,200 sqft (ranch) | 15-18 yd³ | 18-22 yd³ | $3,000-$5,000 |
| 1,600 sqft | 20-24 yd³ | 24-29 yd³ | $4,000-$6,500 |
| 2,000 sqft | 25-30 yd³ | 30-36 yd³ | $5,000-$8,000 |
| 2,400 sqft | 30-36 yd³ | 36-43 yd³ | $6,000-$10,000 |
| 3,000 sqft | 37-45 yd³ | 45-54 yd³ | $7,500-$12,000 |
Foundation Cost Breakdown
Concrete Cost Components
Labor Estimates
Engineering & Permits
Foundation design must comply with local building codes and typically requires engineering approval. Soil conditions, frost depth, water table, and seismic zone all affect foundation requirements. These estimates are for planning purposes only.
Calculate Concrete for Your Specific Project
Use our specialized calculators for each foundation component.