Column and pier quantity is cross-sectional area × height × count. Rectangular members use width × depth for area; round piers and form tubes use π × radius². Keep different diameters and heights in separate groups.
Concrete in a round pier or form tube = π × radius² × concrete height × count. Rectangular columns use width × depth × height; group identical members together and calculate different diameters or heights separately.
Published: September 29, 2026
Last reviewed: September 29, 2026
Published by BuildYard. The guide reflects BuildYard's calculation methodology and editorial standards and does not replace project-specific professional advice.
Rectangular area = width × depth.
Circular area = π × radius², with radius equal to one-half of the inside form diameter.
Member volume = cross-sectional area × concrete height.
For identical members, multiply one-member volume by the quantity; calculate different sizes separately.
Convert total cubic feet to cubic yards by dividing by 27 for ready-mix planning.
For bagged concrete, divide required cubic feet by the exact package yield stated by the manufacturer and round up to whole bags.
Reinforcement, embedment, bearing, frost depth, and structural sizing are project-design issues rather than outputs of the volume formula.
Use actual inside form dimensions and specified concrete elevation when measuring the pour.
Concrete Calculator estimates ready-mix concrete, bag mix, weight, and truck loads for general slabs, pads, walls, and rectangular pours.
Open calculator →FoundationsFoundation Calculator estimates concrete for foundation wall or footing runs for early continuous-foundation material planning.
Open calculator →Estimate cast-in-place concrete wall volume from gross wall area, wall thickness, and true openings while keeping footings, pilasters, and waste separate.
Read guide →ConcreteCalculate strip-footing or isolated-footing concrete from footing length, width, depth, and count, then convert the total volume to cubic yards.
Read guide →ConcreteEstimate rebar linear feet from slab dimensions, bar spacing, edge cover, grid direction, lap lengths, stock lengths, and waste.
Read guide →Circular-volume example using the inside concrete diameter. Bag conversion shown with the current selected product's stated yield where appropriate.
| Step | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Radius | 12 in÷2 | 0.5 ft |
| One pier | π×0.5²×4 | 3.142 cu ft |
| Eight piers | 3.142×8 | 25.13 cu ft |
| Cubic yards | 25.13÷27 | 0.93 yd³ |
Current manufacturer data, supplier specifications, drawings, field measurements, applicable codes, permit requirements, and qualified professional guidance can take priority over a general-purpose planning estimate.