Concrete & cement calculator

    Work out how much concrete you need for a slab, footing, column or post-hole — plus how many 25 kg ready-mix bags, or how much cement, sand and gravel to buy loose.

    Your job

    Results

    Volume
    1.32
    25 kg bags
    111
    Cement
    492 kg
    Sand
    1092 kg
    Gravel
    1535 kg
    Water
    246 L

    One 25 kg dry ready-mix bag yields ~0.012 m³ of set concrete. Loose ratios assume dry weights; add ~10 % for spillage and compaction.

    Frequently asked questions

    How many 25 kg bags of concrete are in 1 m³?

    About 85 bags of dry ready-mix (each ~0.012 m³ set). For a 10 × 10 × 0.1 m slab (1 m³) buy ~90 bags to allow for a 5–10 % over-order.

    What mix ratio should I use for a garden slab?

    A general 1:2:3 mix (cement : sand : gravel by volume) with ~0.5 water/cement ratio gives ~C20/25. For a footing use a leaner 1:3:6; for a path 1:2:4.

    How much water do I add per 25 kg bag?

    Roughly 2.5–3 L per 25 kg bag. Add in stages until the mix balls in your gloved hand without slumping — too much water halves the final strength.

    Do I need reinforcement in a DIY slab?

    For anything over 80 mm thick or that will carry a car, add A142 mesh mid-depth. Thin paths under 60 mm can go without, but expect hairline shrinkage cracks.

    Estimates only. Check the paint tin / adhesive bag for the exact coverage of your product.