Concrete & Masonry
Estimate a simple solid stair mass as stacked rectangular prisms so step geometry stays visible in the volume calculation.
Change the defaults to match your project and the product you plan to buy.
Project result
See the solid stair volume, allowance, cubic yards and premix bag reference for a simple repeated-rise/tread geometry.
Planning estimate only. Verify product coverage, package size, supplier specifications and project requirements before purchasing.
Methodology
width × rise × tread × n(n+1)/2
Models solid rectangular steps.
base volume × extra %
Placement contingency.
ft³ ÷ 27
Cubic-yard reference.
ceil(planned ft³ ÷ yield)
Reference bag yields only.
Measure the clear step width, vertical rise and horizontal tread depth. This formula represents a solid staircase as stacked rectangular layers; it is not suitable for hollow formed stairs, precast units or geometry with a large landing unless those volumes are calculated separately. Confirm the finished stair dimensions independently.
Use the result as a concrete quantity estimate after the stair design is already established. Add any landing or foundation volume separately, verify reinforcement and formwork requirements, and check premix yield or ready-mix delivery rules before buying. Concrete quantity math does not validate stair-code dimensions or structural design.
Reference
| Planning item | Starting point | Verify / adjust |
|---|---|---|
| Solid-step model | n(n+1)/2 layers | Not for hollow/precast systems. |
| Rise/tread | Use finished design dimensions | Code/design is separate. |
| Landing | Calculate separately | Add its rectangular volume. |
| Bag yield | Use product label | Reference only. |
Questions
No. Calculate the landing as a separate slab or rectangular volume and add it.
No. It estimates concrete from dimensions you enter and does not determine code-compliant stair geometry.
No. Precast systems should be ordered from product specifications rather than a solid cast-in-place volume model.
Planning guides
Concrete
Understand the stacked-prism method for simple solid concrete steps and when it should not be used.
Read guide →Estimate concrete volume in cubic yards plus common premix bag quantities for slabs and pads.
Open calculator → Concrete & MasonryEstimate concrete volume for continuous rectangular footings from run length, width, depth, quantity and extra allowance in US or Metric units.
Open calculator → Concrete & MasonryEstimate concrete for round columns or piers from diameter, height, quantity and extra allowance, with cubic yards and bag references.
Open calculator →