How this calculator works
Solid steps are stacked blocks. The first step is one rise high, the second is two rises high, and the top is as high as the whole stair. Each block is as wide as the steps and one tread deep. So the volume is the width times the run times the rise, times 1 + 2 + 3 + … up to the number of steps. A landing is one more block, as wide as the steps and as high as the top step.
Worked example: three steps, 7 in rise, 11 in run, 4 ft wide: 4 × 0.917 × 0.583 × (1 + 2 + 3) = 12.8 ft³. With 10% extra that is 14.1 ft³, or 0.52 yd³, which is 24 bags of 80 lb. Add a 3 ft landing at the top (3 × 4 × 1.75 ft = 21 ft³) and the total becomes 37.2 ft³, or 1.38 yd³.
Concrete for steps 4 ft wide (7 in rise, 11 in run, no landing, 10% extra)
Cubic yards, then 80 lb bags.
| Steps | Cubic yards | 80 lb bags |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0.09 | 4 |
| 2 | 0.26 | 12 |
| 3 | 0.52 | 24 |
| 4 | 0.87 | 40 |
| 5 | 1.31 | 59 |
| 6 | 1.83 | 83 |
Tips before you buy
- Check the local code and whether you need a permit. Residential steps are usually limited to a rise of about 7¾ in and a run of at least 10 in, with every rise in a flight within 3/8 in of the others.
- A good set of steps needs a footing below the frost line and a compacted gravel base, or it can heave and settle, and pull away from the house.
- Order a little over. The steps are poured in one go so that they cure as one piece. Above about 1 yd³ (45 bags of 80 lb), compare the price of ready-mix delivery, which often has a short-load fee, with the bags and the work of mixing them.
- Form the steps with plywood, and brace the forms well: wet concrete is heavy and pushes outward. Slope the treads very slightly (1/8 to 1/4 in per foot) so that water drains off.
- Add reinforcing (rebar or mesh) and a broom finish for grip. Keep the concrete damp for a week while it cures.
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How much concrete do I need for three steps?
About 0.52 yd³ for three steps 4 ft wide, with a 7 in rise and an 11 in run and 10% extra, which is 24 bags of 80 lb. A 3 ft landing adds about 0.86 yd³.
How do I calculate concrete for stairs?
Treat each step as a block as high as its distance from the ground. Add the volumes: width × run × rise, times 1 for the first step, 2 for the second and so on. The calculator does it for you.
What is the standard rise and run for concrete steps?
A rise of about 7 in and a run of 11 in are comfortable, and residential codes typically limit the rise to 7¾ in and require a run of at least 10 in. Check your local code.
Can I fill the steps with gravel or rubble to use less concrete?
Yes. Many steps are poured as a thin shell over a compacted fill, which saves concrete. The calculator gives the solid volume, which is the most you would need.
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Related calculators & guides
Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.