Concrete Calculator

The concrete calculator can be beneficial when one must figure the amounts of concrete needed to accomplish certain jobs.  The need to calculate concrete may arise from work related tasks, or general home improvement projects.  No matter the reason you are working with concrete, you will need to understand how to determine the proper amounts needed for pouring.  You will need to be exact in your concrete measurements to avoid falling short, or wasting expensive materials.

Below are some tips which you may find useful in using in generally understand how to estimate concrete for your needs.

Understanding the calculus for square footing and an example …

First, let us talk about pouring a square footing.  Square footings are the foundation in which exterior walls of a dwelling are to be built on.  It is important that the footing is even in measurements.  Therefore, the first thing you will need to do is determine the measurements of the intended footing.  Measure the length and width of the footing space.  Write these numbers down so that you will remember them for later reference.

Next, measure the depth of your footing.  Be certain to get each of these measurements exactly correct.  If you a wrong in your measurements it will adversely affect your concrete calculations.  Now that you have the measurements you are ready to calculate the amount of concrete needed for pouring the footing.

Your goal is to find the volume of the space.  This is the actual amount of space which will need to be filled.  To find volume simply multiply the length by the width, then multiply the answer by the depth.

Here is an example:  If the length is 23, width is 7, and depth is .32, you will write down the equation as 23×7= 161 then 161x.32= 51.52.  Your answer is 51.52 .  You will be needing 51.52 cubic feet of concrete to pour this square footing.  There is one more step for ordering the concrete.  Concrete is sold in cubic yards, not cubic feet.  Therefore, you will need to convert your measurement to cubic yards so that you know how many bags of concrete to order for the job. To do this take the number you found for volume and divide it by 27.  You are using the number 27 because there are 27 cubic feet in a square yard.  So the equation is as follow, 51.52/27= 1.90.  You will need to order two bags of concrete.  This formula will also work for finding the amounts of concrete needed for pouring walls and sidewalks.

Concrete Calculator For Square Footing…

Concrete Calculator For Round Footing and Tube…

Understanding the calculus for round footing and tube: examples …

If you will be pouring a round footing or tube, there is a slightly different method you will need to follow. First you will need to measure the inside diameter of the tube or circle you wish to pour.  Now divide the diameter by two.  This will give you the radius.  If the diameter is six, the radius would be three.  Now measure the height of the tube or circle footing.  Then use the following formula to determine the amount of concrete you will need. H stands for height, R for radius, ð for pi(pi can be rounded at 3.14, so this is the number we will use for it.).  The symbol  ^ stands for “the power of”.  For example if it were 3^6, this would be 3x3x3x3x3x3= 729.  Here is the actual formula you will use to determine the volume of your tube or round footing: ð x R^2 x H.  For example lets say the diameter is four cubic feet, and the height is six cubic feet.  The following equation would determine the amount of concrete you will need. 3.14×2^2×6= 75.36 cubic feet.  Remember to break this number down to cubic yards so that you may order the bags of concrete.  75.36/27= 2.79  You would need to order three bags of concrete to complete the job.

You may use a concrete calculator as above to find these numbers or simply an old fashioned pencil and paper.  If you do prefer a concrete calculator you may find several online versions.  These usually are found on home improvement sites.  Some people prefer the use of a concrete calculator as it does a large amount of the work for you.  Most will ask you to for simply things such, as height, and width.  This does cut out some of the steps.  As well you can rest assured that your calculations are correct as long as you enter the correct measurements.

However, if you work the equations on paper, you will have them to reference back to.  This allows for more assurance that your measurements are entered correctly.  Just be absolutley certain to check behind yourself and make sure that the math is correct.  As with any equation the numbers must be right or the entire concept is off key.

You now know how to calculate concrete for jobs which you may be preparing for.  Just remember to double, and even triple check all measurements.  The slightest variance in measurements can completely throw your calculations of course.  You do not want this as it will cost you both time and money.  Also, concrete prices may vary from store to store.  Compare prices of materials before starting the job.

You may want to order an extra bag just in case you find that you need it.  Another useful tip is to have all of your tools, and materials ready before you actually begin pouring.  You will not be able to leave in the middle of the job.  Concrete work requires dedication as it begins to set.  There is no room for error, or time for last minute trips to retrieve tools or to gather supplies.  You will need to allow plenty of time to stay with the job and see that it is finished properly.  You do not want to be forced to deal with concrete that has not been properly formed.  This can be an expensive mess to clean up or to repair.

If you follow these formulas and tips, you will easily be able to calculate your concrete needs.  Just take your time in measuring.  You will find that the task at hand is easier than you thought!

Concrete is now becoming one of the most preferred alternatives to the conventional flooring materials such as ceramic, natural stone, and wood. It is highly durable, cost effective and flexible as a flooring material. Best of all, it is an eco-friendly material that can be easily recycled.

Often, old concrete is used for making new concrete and in building roads. Stamped concrete is used as flooring for drive ways, indoor floors and patios.

Concrete floors look very attractive when they are polished as they provide high-gloss finish that is much higher than natural stone. You have a wide range of options in terms of colors, design options and patterns. It is also possible to control the reflectivity of these floors.

Some of the benefits of concrete floors are:

Cost Effective

Concrete flooring is cheap when compared to other alternatives such as ceramic tiles and natural stone. They do not need any additional resources and can do well with the materials already available on the site. You just need gravel, cement, water and sand. With proper maintenance, you can improve natural lightening and save on energy bills.

Easy Maintenance

It is easy to maintain polished concrete floors and are best for high traffic areas such as offices and hospitals. They can be cleaned by simply sweeping or mopping the floors. Spills can be easily wiped off without using any chemicals. Waxing after every few years ensures their shine for years.

Eco-friendly option

Various organic compounds in synthetic floorings and cleaning products have harmful and carcinogenic substances. On the other hand, hard flooring such as concrete and stone are safe and healthy. They do not trap moisture and can be cleaned without using strong chemical based cleaning agents. Concrete contractors use various color pigments made using recyclable materials such as glass for creating textures and colors.

Cons of concrete floors

Cold

Many people may find that concrete flooring is too cold for interior areas such as bedrooms and would have to invest in throw rugs to avoid getting the cold feeling on their feet.

Cracking

Concrete flooring can develop cracks and in some cases, it cannot be repaired in a way that it blends seamlessly with the present concrete coloring. This can be a drawback for all those who want to invest in colored, patterned or stamped concrete.

Cost

Though concrete itself is not costly, but installing it can be a costly affair. Your cost may skyrocket if you have plans to incorporate your design ideas into the concrete.

Decorative concrete floors

Commercial interiors demand high performance and they should stand up to different levels of moisture, heat and should also be easy to maintain. Decorative concrete floors offer all these options at an affordable price. These floors are also preferred by homeowners. Decorative concrete floors are best for both new and remodeled constructions. They are also safe because properly polished concrete floors have considerable friction and are not prone to slipping.

If you have plans to install concrete flooring, it is best to opt for reputable contractors who have years of hands on experience in this field as this can ensure that your concrete floor will not only be best, but would also continue to serve you for years.

With so many exciting options in concrete flooring, you can definitely choose the best one for your house or commercial building to give it a entirely new look within your budget.

Most people are under the impression that concrete strength lies solely in the mix. Nothing is farther than the truth. The curing process of concrete, is equally important. Under controlled conditions, the curing process can help the concrete achieve maximum strength as well as ensure long life. This is where precast concrete has a tremendous advantage over concrete cast ‘in situ’.

Precast concrete can be defined as a concrete casting which is done in a mold or form. Curing is then done using conditions which are controlled carefully. After the curing process is over, it can be sent to the site and put in place as per the construction plan. The mold can be reused thousands of times till it has to be replaced due to wear and tear or change in design specifications.

This makes the unit cost per casting lower than if it is cast at the site.

The origins of precast concrete were in Roman times. They used it for building their aqueducts, culverts, tunnels etc. The strength and quality of the concrete castings can be gauged from the fact that some of the Roman concrete structures are in use even today, many hundred years later.

In 1905, modern precast concrete was used in paneled buildings in Liverpool, England. It gained popularity around the world in a short span of time.

There are hundreds of products which are made of precast concrete, covering a wide variety of applications.

* Agriculture – they are used in bunks, agricultural fencing, cattle grid, H & J bunks, livestock slats, watering troughs etc. They are also widely used in agricultural related buildings.

* Usage in Buildings – they are mostly used fireplaces, trim products, curtain walls etc, Engineers use them as various building components right from the foundation to the beams etc. The precast concrete will be tested under laboratory conditions, to ensure that it has sufficient strength and service life.

* Retaining Walls – precast concrete has wide ranging retaining wall applications. Some of the different types of retaining walls which can be made of precast concrete are: gravity, semi gravity, cantilever, counter fort and buttress retaining walls.

* There are a host of other applications for precast concrete. They are wastewater and water delivery systems, hazardous materials containment, marine products, modular paving, reinforced concrete box, pre-stressed concrete etc. The applications are almost limitless.

The Pros are:

* It can be cured under controlled conditions to obtain maximum strength and lifespan.

* Cost per unit of precast concrete is less than concrete cast in situ.

* Since it is cast in a factory, precast concrete requires minimum space in places where the site is crowded or cluttered.

The Disadvantages are:

* It is difficult to lift a precast structure to its place, if it is heavy, odd shaped and bulky.

* Requires a lot of planning and coordination between the factory and construction site.

* It cannot be used for some specialized structures which have to be cast on site, where it has to be used.

Precast concrete has wide application in the construction industry. Using precast concrete, it is possible to scale up production to a large extent. It has helped bring down costs in the construction industry.

Concrete is an excellent building material and is very strong and durable. It is widely used in many applications such as buildings, bridges, water tanks etc. However, if water penetrates the concrete, then over time, it can cause corrosive damage and even lead to failure. Here is an insight on a concrete sealer and how it works.

A concrete sealer is basically a protective coating applied to the concrete, forming an impermeable barrier to water and/or salts. After extensive research, Scientists have come to the conclusion that damage to concrete structures occurs due to moisture intrusion, reaction due to alkali/silica, chemical intrusion, adverse temperature conditions and corrosion occurring in the reinforcing materials such as rebars. There are two main categories of sealers and they are: topical sealers, which act by forming a barrier film and penetrating or reactive sealers.

TOPICAL SEALERS:

* Topical sealers form a film which acts as a barrier to ingress of water, acid, salts, chemicals etc.

* They provide visual enhancement of the structure, but it is only a surface coating. If the film is damaged in any way, then water or other substances can penetrate the substrate.

* Surface preparation, before application of topical sealers, is required. The surface has to be clean and dry.

* Topical sealers have a life span of 1 to 5 years and are relatively inexpensive.

One of the commonest topical sealers is acrylic resin. It is easy to apply. It gives the structure a better aesthetic look. Acrylic sealers give good protection to colored substrates against sunlight. When they are wet, they have a tendency to be slippery and anti-skid material may have to be used. Though they have a definite lifespan, acrylic resins are popularly used for residential applications. Epoxy or urethane systems are also film forming concrete sealers. They have superior properties but are costlier than acrylic sealers.

PENETRATING SEALERS:

* This type of sealers should be chosen carefully, to match the substrate porosity, in order to be fully effective.

* Penetrating sealers can be applied to either dry or damp surfaces. They do not enhance the look of the concrete.

* They react chemically with the minerals in the cement and reduce the availability of free silica for alkali-silica reactions.

* They work by penetrating the surface and reacting with substrate materials, forming clots, which block the pores making it impermeable.

* They have a double action – they not only block surface moisture, they also block subterranean moisture and can reduce efflorescence.

* They have a long life and can last as long as the concrete structure does. Compared to topical sealers, they are relatively expensive.

Penetrative sealers generally consist of silanes. They have a long life and are very effective. They are used in substrates of limited porosity. Silicates have small molecular compound and are used to seal substrates of moderate porosity. They are ideal for use on factory floors, showrooms, garages etc. To seal highly porous substrates such as sidewalks, parking lots, foundations, concrete blocks etc., siliconates are used. Since silicates and siliconates have larger molecules, they do not penetrate deep and only react moderately with the substrate and it is fair to say they act more like topical sealers. Silanes are the most penetrative and long lasting, though the most expensive.

Depending on the nature of the job on hand and the budget available, a decision can be taken on the type of concrete sealer to be used. If you need to know the amount of concrete needed for general structures, use our Concrete Calculator. It is wiser to get expert advice if you are not sure of which concrete sealer to use. Concrete sealers, if properly used, can extend the life of the concrete structure almost indefinitely.

Concrete countertops are gaining on other types of countertops in popularity. There are many reasons why people want to have concrete countertops in their homes, they are inexpensive, they add value to your home, they are durable, and there is no end to the number of design ideas that are available.

What are Concrete Countertops

This is a simple question to answer; they are exactly what they sound like. These are countertops that are made from poured concrete; this is what makes them so inexpensive, and simple to create.

How to design Concrete Countertops

Designing concrete countertops can be one of the most enjoyable home improvement projects you will ever undertake. The reason for this is that there is a never-ending number of ways to design your own countertops. Countertops made of concrete will allow you the freedom to create your own unique and one-of-a-kind countertop.

When creating the countertop anyone that has typical knowledge of woodworking and concrete can accomplish the task. All that is needed is to build a wood “jig” in which to pour the concrete. The jig can match the exact contours of the cabinets or can be any shape or design you desire.

You can even color the concrete in many different colors before you pour it into the jig. Once the concrete is poured this is where the fun starts. You can decorate you countertop in a myriad of methods. There are concrete stamp machines that will print hundreds of different designs into the concrete, some people add coins, marbles, or family photos to their concrete countertops. The possibilities are endless, once you are finished decorating your countertop you then seal it to protect your design.

by Kelly Sue under CC BY-SA  with wpseopix.com

Concrete Countertop

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by Jeremy Levine Design under CC BY  with wpseopix.com

Concrete Countertop

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Concrete Countertop

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Should you do the job yourself or hire a professional

Most people should be able to handle installing and decorating concrete countertops if you take the time to learn the proper procedures. The two key things that you should concentrate on are learning how to build the jig and how to pour the concrete. And speaking of concrete, if you’re wondering how much concrete you need, please visit this page which has a concrete calculator.

The great thing about concrete countertops is that they are inexpensive, so you can hire a professional if you like, and you will still spend less money than you would for other types of countertops. Another reason that you may want to consider hiring a professional is the fact that concrete is heavy. This means that the framework of your cabinets may need reinforced in order to support the concrete. A professional will be able to determine if they need reinforced or not, and how to reinforce them properly. A professional will also be able to complete the job faster if you are in a hurry to get the countertops installed.

Btw, here’s a video on how to do it yourself …

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many benefits to having concrete countertops installed in your home. The best reason to have them installed is the wide variety of design possibilities and the fact that they are inexpensive. Concrete countertops will cost much less than most other materials that you can choose.

Even if you have a professional do the work they will cost less than just the materials of other types of countertops. They are durable and will add beauty and value to your home. The only thing to watch for, is if you are certain that you will be selling your home sometime in the future, do not make the countertops too personal or else people may not purchase your home. At the least they may ask you to take less so that they can change the countertops.