How to calculate concrete
- Measure rise and run. Rise is the height of each step, run the depth of each tread, in inches.
- Count the steps. If there is a landing at the top, it counts as the top step.
- Add the blocks. Each step is a block from the ground up: step 1 is one rise tall, step 2 two rises, and so on.
- Add extra and convert. Add 5–10% and divide cubic feet by 27 for yards.
Worked example: 4 steps 5 ft wide with a 4 ft landing
- Steps 1–3 (one run deep each): 2.67 + 5.35 + 8.02 cu ft.
- Top step = the landing: 5 × 4 × (4 × 7 ÷ 12) = 46.67 cu ft.
- Total 62.7 cu ft, plus 5% = 2.44 cubic yards or 110 bags of 80 lb.
Concrete for 4 ft wide steps
| Steps | Cubic feet | Cubic yards | 80 lb bags |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 6.7 | 0.25 | 12 |
| 3 | 13.5 | 0.50 | 23 |
| 4 | 22.5 | 0.83 | 38 |
| 5 | 33.7 | 1.25 | 57 |
| 6 | 47.2 | 1.75 | 79 |
7 in rise, 11 in run, no landing, 5% extra for waste.
Concrete formulas by shape
All measurements in feet; divide inches by 12 first. Results are in cubic feet.
- Steps (solid, n steps)
- width × rise × run × (1 + 2 + … + n). With a landing, the landing is the top step: width × rise × [run × (1 + … + (n − 1)) + landing depth × n]
Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27.
Frequently asked questions
What are standard step dimensions?
Under the International Residential Code a riser can be at most 7¾ in high and a tread at least 10 in deep. Many outdoor steps use about 7 in rise and 11 in run.
How is the landing counted?
The landing is the top step: instead of one tread deep it is as deep as the landing. That's how calculator.net and inchcalculator count it too.
Can I save concrete on tall steps?
Yes: steps are often poured over compacted fill or blocks inside the form. The calculator assumes solid concrete, so it gives the maximum.
About the prices
Costs are estimated ranges with source and date, never a quote. Enter your local prices under "Use your own prices", or read how we estimate prices.