Footing Volume Calculator
Calculate footing volume in cubic yards and cubic feet — enter dimensions, get yards with waste. Enter foundation dimensions to get instant results. Enter dimensions, select units and add waste to get instant, supplier-ready numbers.
Enter dimensions above to calculate
- Enter values to see step-by-step substitution.
Engineering Assumptions:
- Rectangular sections of uniform thickness. Split irregular shapes into non-overlapping rectangles.
- Thickness and reinforcement must come from project plans; volume alone does not establish load capacity.
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TOP VIEW — Length × Width
SECTION — Placed thickness 8in
What Is This Calculator?
The Footing Volume Calculator — Estimates foundation excavation, footings and walls for US homes — volume, concrete and cost.
What Does It Calculate?
- Footing volume in cubic yards
- Foundation wall area and concrete
- Excavation volume with waste
How to Use the Calculator
- Measure Footing Volume 20 ft x 10 ft x 4 in — use feet for length/width and inches for thickness where typical.
- Enter values and select units. The calculator converts to feet before calculating (inches /12, yards x3).
- Adjust waste % and optional price, then click Calculate. Results show with waste included.
- Use Reset to clear and try another size.
Formula & Engineering Methodology
V = length × width × thickness × identical sections
- L — Length for Footing Volume in feet
- W — Width for Footing Volume in feet
- D — Depth for Footing Volume in feet
All units convert to exact standard engineering dimensions (NIST SP 811) before calculation to ensure consistency between US Customary and Metric measurements.
Worked Example
Example: Footing Volume 20 ft x 10 ft x 4 in
| STEP | VALUE |
|---|---|
| Convert depth | 4 in /12 = 0.333 ft |
| Cubic feet | 20 x 10 x 0.333 = 66.67 ft3 |
| Cubic yards | 66.67 /27 = 2.47 yd3 |
| With 10% waste | 2.72 yd3 |
Construction Information
Material: Footings 8–12 in thick, walls 8 in. Concrete 3000–4000 psi. Footing below frost line per local code.
- Measure longest x widest; split L-shapes into two rectangles and add.
- Compact subgrade — soft spots add thickness.
- For structural sizing (beams, headers, rebar) verify with a professional per local code.
Material Information
Footings 8–12 in thick, walls 8 in. Concrete 3000–4000 psi. Footing below frost line per local code.
Waste & Overages
Add 10% for over-excavation and slough — trench sides cave.
Practical Tips
- Call 811 before digging
- Keep footings on undisturbed soil or compacted fill
Common Mistakes
- Shallow footings above frost line — heave
- Not adding extra for footing flares
Assumptions & Engineering References
- Rectangular sections of uniform thickness. Split irregular shapes into non-overlapping rectangles.
- Thickness and reinforcement must come from project plans; volume alone does not establish load capacity.
This calculator provides an estimate based on your inputs. Actual requirements vary by site, material and installation. For code-regulated or load-bearing work, consult a qualified professional.
Calculations run 100% in your browser — zero tracking of your dimensions or input data.
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Frequently asked questions
What does the Footing Volume Calculator calculate?
The Footing Volume Calculator estimates footing volume quantity for US jobs — Footing volume in cubic yards, Foundation wall area and concrete, Excavation volume with waste. Enter dimensions, choose units, add waste and price to get instant results.
How do I measure for footing volume?
Measure footing volume 20 ft x 10 ft x 4 in on site. Use the unit selectors — the tool converts inches→feet (÷12) and yards→feet (×3) before math. For non-rectangular, split into rectangles and add.
How much waste should I add?
Add 10% for over-excavation and slough — trench sides cave.
How accurate is this footing volume estimate?
Math is exact for your inputs. Actual needs vary by site, material and installation. Add 5–10% waste for rectangular, 10–15% for irregular.
About Calculator Street
Built by Vipul Otari for US homeowners & contractors. Calculator inputs are processed in your browser. Estimates depend on your measurements, product specifications and the assumptions shown on this page. Confirm order quantities with your supplier and structural requirements with your project designer. Page updated: 2026-09-11.