Footing Volume Calculator

A footing is the base of a foundation that supports the structure above and transfers its load to the ground. It is typically wider than the wall or column it supports, spreading the load over a larger area to prevent settling. Common examples are footings for deck posts, foundations walls, and columns.

The required depth of your footings depends on the frost line in your geographical area. The bottom of the footing must be below the frost line to prevent frost heave from moving your structure. Always check your local building codes for specific requirements in your area.

Sonotubes are cylindrical cardboard forms used to create round concrete columns, often used for deck footings. You place the tube in the hole, pour the concrete, and once it cures, the cardboard can be peeled away. This calculator can determine the volume needed to fill them.

For most structural footings, yes. Reinforcement with steel rebar is almost always required by building codes to give the concrete tensile strength, which helps it resist cracking under load. The specific amount and placement of rebar will depend on your project and local codes.

Pre-mixed bags are ideal for very small projects, like setting a single fence post. For anything larger than a few cubic feet, mixing bags becomes very labor-intensive. If your project requires 1 cubic yard or more, ordering ready-mix concrete from a truck is almost always more efficient and cost-effective.