Concrete Steps Calculator

Estimate concrete volume, bags, and cost for stairs using step measurements.

Top landing depth
0 Total Concrete (yd³)
0 80-lb Concrete Bags
60-lb Bags: 0
Volume (cubic feet): 0
Estimated Weight: 0 lbs
Estimated Cost: $0
Total Rise: 0 in
Total Run: 0 in

What Is a Concrete Step Calculator?

A concrete step calculator helps you estimate how much concrete you need to build stairs or steps. By entering simple measurements like step width, rise, run, and number of steps, you can quickly calculate the total concrete volume, required bags, and approximate weight.

This tool is useful for homeowners, contractors, and DIY builders planning concrete stair projects.

How to Estimate Concrete for Steps (Step-by-Step)

Concrete steps diagram showing rise, run, width and platform depth

Estimating concrete for steps may look complicated at first, but once you break the stairs into simple shapes, it becomes much easier. Concrete steps are calculated by dividing them into smaller rectangular sections instead of treating them as one solid block.

Follow the steps below to understand how concrete estimation for stairs works.

Step 1: Measure the Stair Width

First, measure the width of the steps from one side to the other.
This width is usually the same for all steps and the top platform.

Example: 48 inches wide

Step 2: Measure Rise and Run

Next, measure:

  • Rise – the vertical height of one step

  • Run – the horizontal depth of one step

These two measurements define the shape of each stair.

Typical values:
Rise = 7–8 inches
Run = 10–11 inches

Step 3: Count the Number of Steps

Count how many steps are required to reach the total height from ground level to the top landing.

Example: 5 total steps

Step 4: Divide the Steps Into Rectangular Blocks

Each concrete step can be treated as a rectangular block.

  • The first step has the smallest height

  • Each next step adds extra height

  • The top platform is calculated as a separate rectangle

Instead of calculating one complex shape, calculate the volume of each block and add them together.

Step 5: Calculate Volume for Each Step

The volume of each rectangular section is calculated using:

				
					Volume = Width × Run × Height

				
			

Each step has a different height, so you calculate the volume of each step separately.

Step 6: Add Platform or Landing Volume (If Any)

If your stairs include a top platform or landing, calculate it separately:

				
					Platform Volume = Platform Depth × Platform Height × Width

				
			

Then add this to the total stair volume.

Step 7: Convert Total Volume Into Usable Units

Concrete is usually ordered in cubic yards, so the final volume must be converted:

  • Cubic inches → cubic feet

  • Cubic feet → cubic yards

Most builders also estimate:

  • Concrete weight

  • 60-lb and 80-lb bag quantities

This is where a concrete steps calculator saves time and avoids mistakes.

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