Calculate Patio Concrete
Select your patio shape, enter dimensions, and get a complete materials list with cost estimates for different finishes.
Rectangle Patio Dimensions
Circular Patio Dimensions
L-Shaped Patio Dimensions
Section A (longer rectangle)
Section B (shorter rectangle)
Custom Patio Area
Enter the total square footage if you have an irregular shape already measured.
Concrete Finish Types & Cost Reference
Compare popular patio finishes to choose the best option for your budget and style.
| Finish Type | Cost / sq ft | Durability | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plain / Broom Finish | $6 - $12 | High | Low | Budget-friendly, utility areas |
| Colored Concrete | $8 - $16 | High | Low - Medium | Adding character without texture |
| Stamped Concrete | $12 - $25 | Medium - High | Medium (reseal every 2-3 yrs) | Mimicking stone, brick, or slate |
| Exposed Aggregate | $10 - $20 | High | Low - Medium | Natural look, slip resistance |
| Polished Concrete | $8 - $18 | High | Low | Modern, sleek appearance |
| Stained (acid/water) | $7 - $15 | Medium | Medium (reseal periodically) | Unique marbled/variegated look |
How to Build a Concrete Patio
Building a concrete patio involves careful planning and preparation. The quality of the finished patio depends heavily on the groundwork done before any concrete is poured. Here is a step-by-step overview of the process.
1. Site Preparation
Excavate 8-10 inches below your desired finished height (4 inches for gravel base + 4 inches for concrete). Compact the soil with a plate compactor. Ensure the subgrade slopes 1/4 inch per foot away from the house.
2. Gravel Base
Spread 4-6 inches of compacted gravel (crushed limestone or road base). This provides drainage and prevents frost heave. Compact in 2-inch lifts for best results. The base should mirror your final slope.
3. Form Boards
Set 2x4 or 2x6 lumber around the perimeter, staked every 3 feet. Use a string line and level to ensure proper slope. Oil or wet forms before pouring so concrete does not stick.
4. Reinforcement
Place rebar on 18-inch centers or lay 6x6 welded wire mesh across the entire area. Support reinforcement on chairs or bricks so it sits in the middle third of the slab, about 2 inches off the base.
5. Pouring & Finishing
Pour concrete starting at the far end, working toward your exit point. Screed with a straightedge, then bull-float the surface. Apply broom, stamp, or other finish within the appropriate time window.
6. Curing & Joints
Cut control joints within 6-18 hours at 1/4 slab thickness depth. Keep concrete moist for 7 days using wet burlap, curing compound, or periodic misting. Full strength is reached at 28 days.
Concrete Bag Coverage Reference
| Bag Size | Coverage (cu yd) | Coverage (cu ft) | Bags per cu yd | Approx. Cost / Bag |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 lb | 0.011 | 0.30 | 90 | $3.50 - $5.00 |
| 60 lb | 0.017 | 0.45 | 59 | $4.50 - $6.50 |
| 80 lb | 0.022 | 0.60 | 45 | $5.50 - $8.00 |
For projects requiring more than 2 cubic yards, ready-mix concrete delivered by truck ($100-$150 per cubic yard) is more economical and practical than bagged concrete.
Frequently Asked Questions
How thick should a concrete patio be?
How much does a concrete patio cost per square foot?
How much concrete do I need for a 10x10 patio?
Do I need rebar for a concrete patio?
What slope should a concrete patio have for drainage?
How long does it take for a concrete patio to cure?
Privacy & Limitations
All calculations are performed locally in your browser. No data is sent to our servers. This calculator provides estimates based on standard concrete densities, typical material costs, and common construction practices. Actual amounts and costs may vary based on your location, concrete mix, site conditions, and contractor rates. Always consult with a professional contractor for large projects and verify requirements against local building codes.
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Concrete Patio Calculator FAQ
How thick should a concrete patio be?
A standard concrete patio should be 4 inches thick. If you plan to park heavy furniture, a hot tub, or vehicles on it, increase to 6 inches. The concrete should be poured over a 4-6 inch compacted gravel base for proper drainage and to prevent cracking.
How much does a concrete patio cost per square foot?
Plain concrete patios cost $6-12 per square foot installed. Colored concrete runs $8-16, stamped concrete $12-25, and exposed aggregate $10-20 per square foot. These prices include materials, labor, and basic site preparation.
How much concrete do I need for a 10x10 patio?
A 10x10 foot patio at 4 inches thick requires 1.23 cubic yards of concrete (about 33.3 cubic feet). With a 10% waste factor, order 1.36 cubic yards. This equals approximately 62 bags of 80-lb concrete mix or about $136-$204 for ready-mix delivery.
Do I need rebar for a concrete patio?
While not always required by code, rebar or wire mesh is strongly recommended for patio slabs. Use
What slope should a concrete patio have for drainage?
A concrete patio should slope away from the house at a minimum of 1/4 inch per foot (about 2% grade). For a 10-foot wide patio, that means one edge should be 2.5 inches lower than the other. This ensures water drains properly and does not pool against your foundation.
How long does it take for a concrete patio to cure?
Concrete reaches about 70% strength in 7 days and full strength in 28 days. You can walk on a patio after 24-48 hours, place light furniture after 7 days, and put heavy items on it after 28 days. Keep the surface moist during the first 7 days for best curing results.