How Much Concrete Do You Need for a Driveway? Calculator and Tips

How Much Concrete Do You Need for a Driveway? Calculator and Tips

Pouring a new concrete driveway is one of the fastest ways to boost curb appeal and property value, but ordering too little concrete stalls the job, while ordering too much burns money. Below, Drivewayz USA breaks down the exact steps, formulas, and pro tricks to calculate the right amount of concrete—so you can schedule the truck once and finish in a single day.

Why Accurate Math Matters

Concrete is sold by the cubic yard, and most ready-mix suppliers have minimum load fees. A 10-yard minimum is common, so a 9-yard project still gets billed for 10. On the flip side, a short load (ordering extra on a separate truck) can add $150–$300 in delivery fees. Measure twice, pour once.

Quick Concrete Calculator for Driveways

Here’s the simplest formula used by crews nationwide:

Cubic yards = (Length × Width × Thickness) ÷ 27 (all in feet)

Example

A 20 ft × 24 ft driveway at 4 in thick:

1. Convert thickness: 4 in ÷ 12 = 0.33 ft
2. Multiply: 20 × 24 × 0.33 = 158.4 cu ft
3. Divide: 158.4 ÷ 27 = 5.87 cu yd

Order 6.5 yards (add 10% waste factor).

Step-by-Step Measuring Guide

1. Sketch the Driveway Shape

Draw a simple overhead view. Break odd shapes into rectangles, triangles, or circles.

2. Measure Length & Width

Use a 100-ft tape measure. Record in feet and inches, then convert inches to decimals (1 in = 0.083 ft).

3. Decide Thickness

• Passenger cars only: 4 in
• 1-ton pickup or SUV: 5 in
• RV or boat parking: 6 in

4. Calculate Each Section

Run the formula on every shape, then add the cubic yards together.

5. Add Waste Factor

• Simple rectangle: 5–7%
• Curves or slope: 8–10%
• Stencil or exposed-aggregate finish: 10–12%

Thickness Guidelines by Vehicle Load

Always place fiber mesh or #3 rebar on 24-in centers for crack control.

Accounting for Slopes & Curves

Sloped Driveways

Measure thickness at the lowest point; the high end will be thinner, but the average remains close if the grade is uniform. Add ½ yd extra on steep grades to cover low spots.

Radius Entrances

Use the formula for a half-circle: Area = (πR²) ÷ 2. Convert area to cubic feet by multiplying by thickness, then divide by 27.

Ordering Tips from the Ready-Mix Desk

• Call 2–3 days ahead during peak season (April–October).
• Ask for 5–7% air entrainment in freeze zones; it improves durability.
• Specify slump: 4 in for hand-crewing, 6 in if a pump truck is used.
• Schedule the truck after forms are inspected; most cities require an inspection stamp before the pour.

What Does the Concrete Cost?

National average ready-mix price (2024): $125–$140 per cubic yard for 3000-psi mix. Add $15/yd for 4000-psi or fiber-reinforced mix. Short-load fees: $80–$110 for loads under 5 yd. Pump truck: $700–$900 flat rate if the chute can’t reach.

Sample Budget

20 × 24-ft driveway, 6 in thick = 9.3 yd with waste. Concrete: 10 yd × $135 = $1,350. Delivery: $0 (meets minimum). Pump: not needed. Total material: $1,350. Labor, base, and forms are extra.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Homeowners can save 40–50% on labor, but consider:

• A full truck unloads in 7–10 minutes; you have under an hour to place it.
• You’ll need 4–6 helpers for anything over 5 yd.
• Finishing tools cost $400–$600 if you don’t own them.

Rule of thumb: under 3 yd, DIY is doable. Over 5 yd, hire a crew.

Pre-Pour Checklist

1. Verify property line setbacks with the city.
2. Call 811 for utility locates—free and required.
3. Compact base with a plate compactor; moisten the night before.
4. Set forms level and stake every 3 ft.
5. Install expansion joint against garage slab or sidewalk.
6. Have curing compound, plastic sheeting, or burlap on site.

Frequently Asked Questions