If you’re planning a new driveway, laying a foundation for your custom home, or putting down a patio, then getting bulk ready-mix concrete can be a cost-efficient option. Before you place an order, you’ll need to calculate how much you’ll need. Follow the guide below to avoid over- or under-ordering concrete.

How Should You Calculate the Concrete You Need?

First, measure the width and length of the area you’ll be pouring in. Multiply them together, then multiply by the depth you’ll be pouring. Since concrete is sold by the cubic yard, divide that number by 27, the total number of feet in a cubic yard. That number is the total cubic yardage you should need for your project.

To ensure that you have plenty of mix for your project, it’s wise to add in an extra 10% to account for spills and minor variations in the pour site. Once you have your figure, you can call your ready-mix concrete supplier to discuss the best mix ratio and strength. This is measured in psi (pounds per square inch) and determines how much weight the concrete can hold.

How Should You Determine the Amount of Bags?

If you’re pouring a small patio, setting fence posts, or repairing a step, conduct the same calculations as above. Based on the total, you can use online tools to help you determine how many bags of concrete mix you need for your project. When working with the mixture, be sure to follow safety protocols such as wearing gloves, a breathing mask, and a long-sleeved T-shirt and pants to prevent skin-to-material contact. 

For high-quality ready-mix concrete, rely on Builder’s Concrete East. For more than 50 years, they’ve been delivering ready-mix to Windham, CT, residents for projects such as swimming pools, driveways, and commercial construction. They’re also certified producers of pervious concrete, which helps manage stormwater runoff. Call (860) 456-4111 to place an order or visit them online to learn about their various mixes.