Concrete steps calculator
Estimate the concrete volume for a set of solid, closed-riser concrete steps.
Concrete steps calculator
Estimate the concrete volume for a set of solid, closed-riser concrete steps.
Enter your step dimensions to see the concrete estimate.
Concrete needed
Project summary
How it works
These are volume estimates for a solid, closed-riser staircase with no landing. Actual stair dimensions are subject to local building codes; verify rise, run and headroom requirements before building.
Concrete steps calculator
Steps stack up faster than they look
A set of steps is not one block of concrete, it is steps of concrete stacked on top of each other, so the volume grows faster than the step count suggests. Doubling the number of steps at the same rise and run more than doubles the volume, because each additional step also has to fill in underneath every step already there.
This is for solid, closed-riser steps
The formula here assumes a solid staircase with no gap behind each riser and no landing partway up, the shape of a typical small poured-concrete stoop or porch step. An open-riser design, a stair with a landing, or one built over a hollow form needs less concrete than this estimate, since it does not fill the full stacked-block solid.
Frequently asked questions
How much concrete do I need for 3 concrete steps?
Three steps at a 7 inch rise, 11 inch run and 3 foot width need about 9.6 cubic feet of concrete, or roughly 0.36 cubic yards, before waste. With a 10 percent waste allowance that is closer to 0.39 cubic yards. Enter your own step dimensions above for the exact figure.
What is a standard rise and run for steps?
A common comfortable exterior step uses a rise around 7 inches and a run around 11 inches, though local building codes set specific minimum and maximum values and often require consistent rise and run across a whole staircase. Check your local code before finalizing step dimensions.
How do I calculate concrete for stairs?
Calculate the volume of each step separately by multiplying tread depth by riser height by step width. Add the volumes together for the total. The calculator does this automatically when you enter your stair dimensions.
How many bags of concrete per step?
A standard step with a 6 inch riser, 10 inch tread and 3 foot width takes about two 60 pound bags. The calculator gives you the total volume for all steps and converts to bags.
What is the standard riser height for concrete steps?
Most building codes require risers between 4 and 7.75 inches with a maximum variation of 3/8 inch between steps. 7 inches is a common residential standard. The calculator lets you enter any riser height.
Do concrete steps need reinforcement?
Most concrete steps benefit from rebar or wire mesh reinforcement, especially if they are wide or carry heavy loads. The calculator shows concrete volume, and you can add reinforcement requirements separately.
How long before I can use concrete steps?
You can use steps after 3 to 7 days for foot traffic. Wait 28 days for full strength. Keep the surface moist during curing. The calculator gives you the pour schedule information and volume.
Can I pour steps and a slab together?
Yes, steps and the landing pad can be poured as one monolithic pour for the strongest result. The calculator can compute both volumes, and you add them together for the total order.