Concrete

How Much Does Concrete Cost?

Concrete is a material that has some great strength. Whether it is used for a driveway or in a support pillar in a home, concrete can hold up to the challenge.

Concrete cost can vary depending on the type of project you are doing. On average, concrete costs $130 per cubic yard for a 10-yard truckload and around $170 for anything less.

Measuring Concrete Projects

So now you know how much concrete costs, but how do you measure how much concrete you will need?

Concrete is measured in cubic yards and to get the amount you need, you will need to multiply the length times the width times the height and divide that total by 27. 

For example, if you have a sidewalk which is 4 feet by 20 feet by and is 4 inches deep, you would multiply 4 times 20 times 1/2 (as 6 inches is only a quarter of a foot) to get 1.48 or one and a half cubic yards of concrete needed.

Now, since we will need one and a half cubic yards of concrete, this means it will cost us about $255 to pour the sidewalk.

Using this calculation you can measure out your next concrete project. However, you may not want to or even know how to pour concrete yourself. In that case, we suggest you hire a qualified contractor in your area to help you with the project you have. However, you now know what the cost for the concrete is.

To make it easier, feel free to use our calculator below. Simply enter the length, width and height to get the amount of concrete you will need.

Tips When Ordering

1. Always be sure to order 5% to 10% more than you need and ask if you need any additives like reinforced fiber for your project.
2. Make sure you have good access to where the concrete truck will need to pump to. On average, you can pump up to 100 feet of concrete so having closer access makes dropping and/or pumping easier.
3. Knowing how much concrete you will need is only part of the equation. There is also the cost of the truck. Make sure to ask how much the truck will cost along with the concrete price.
4. If hiring a concrete contractor:
   1. Get three quotes and compare.
   2. Check the contractors online reviews and Better Business Ratings
   3. Make sure they are licensed, insured and bonded

Next Steps

Want to learn more about maximizing strength and minimizing cost? the University of Memphis has a detailed write-up explaining it. However, if you can also look below for some of our concrete companies or check out our listings for concrete companies in your area if you are looking for a qualified contractor.