Concrete Slab Weight Calculator
Reviewed by Engr. Talha Tariq | PEC License #: PEC-CIVIL-37815 | Last updated: 2026-02-22
Precision estimation for concrete project weights. Use our free tool to compute the dead load of slabs, patios, and foundations based on dimensions and mix material. Essential for structural clearance and logistics planning.
Calculate the structural weight of concrete slabs based on dimensions and mix material.
Weight = Volume × Density. Standard concrete is approx. 150 lbs per cubic foot.
Guide to Calculating Concrete Slab Weight
Calculate exact project load in pounds and tons based on verified engineering densities for standard, reinforced, and lightweight concrete.
Built-in presets (150 lb/ft³ for standard, 156 lb/ft³ for reinforced) save time, while custom inputs allow for specific material variations.
Easily input dimensions in feet or inches and toggle units dynamically to match your blueprints or field measurements.
Estimate the weight for single or multiple slabs simultaneously—essential for transportation logistics and structural planning.
Internal conversion engine seamlessly handles the math between cubic yards, cubic feet, and imperial weight units.
Generate professional PDF weight summaries to share with logistics teams, engineers, or structural contractors.
Why Slab Weight Matters in Construction
- Structural Integrity: Ensuring the sub-base, deck, or supporting structure can handle the dead load of the cured slab.
- Logistics & Transport: Determining if a specific truck or trailer can safely haul pre-cast or wet mix components.
- Formwork Design: Calculating the lateral and vertical pressure exerted on forms during the pour.
- Project Costing: Weight is often linked to the volume and density of materials ordered from suppliers.
- Permitting & Compliance: Adhering to local building codes that specify minimum or maximum weights for certain residential structures.
Step-by-Step Weight Calculation
- Find the total volume by multiplying Length × Width × Thickness (convert all to feet first).
- Select the concrete density (150 lb/ft³ is standard for most residential pours).
- Multiply Volume (ft³) × Density (lb/ft³) to get the total weight in pounds.
- Divide by 2,000 to convert the results into short tons.
- Always account for internal reinforcements like rebar, which can increase the total weight by 3-5%.
The Math Behind the Weight
- Surface Area = Length × Width
- Volume (ft³) = Surface Area × Thickness (conv. to ft)
- Total Weight (lb) = Volume (ft³) × Density (lb/ft³)
- Weight (Tons) = lb / 2000
Note: 1 cubic yard of standard concrete (27 ft³) weighs approximately 4,050 lbs (2.025 tons).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 20x20 concrete slab weigh?
A standard 4-inch thick 20x20 slab has a volume of 133.33 ft³. Using standard concrete (150 lb/ft³), it weighs approximately 20,000 lbs, or 10 short tons. Reinforced slabs will weigh slightly more due to steel content.
What is the difference between wet and dry concrete weight?
Wet concrete is slightly heavier than dry concrete due to its water content. As concrete cures (hydrates), it retains much of that weight as chemically bound water, although some evaporation occurs. Structural calculations usually design for the 'dead load' of cured concrete.
How heavy is reinforced concrete relative to regular concrete?
Reinforced concrete is typically calculated at 156 lb/ft³, roughly 4% heavier than standard unreinforced concrete. This accounts for the high density of steel rebar or mesh embedded within the slab.
Does the slab thickness affect the density?
No, density is a material property (lb per cubic foot). However, thicker slabs result in higher volume, which directly increases the total weight proportionally.
Can I use this for pre-cast concrete sections?
Yes. As long as you know the dimensions and the specific density of the pre-cast mix (which is often higher due to compaction), this calculator will provide an accurate weight for lifting and transport planning.
Related Calculators
Beam Concrete Calculator
Volume for rectangular or multi-span beams.
Column Concrete Calculator
Round or rectangular column volumes in seconds.
Footing Concrete Calculator
Strip & isolated footing volume estimates.
Wall Concrete Calculator
Compute concrete for straight or segmented walls.
Pier / Caisson Calculator
Drilled shaft & caisson concrete volumes.
Tank / Trench Calculator
Rectangular & circular tank/trench volumes.
Staircase Concrete Calculator
Total volume for flights, landings & risers.
Nominal Mix (M5–M25)
Material splits for standard nominal mixes.
Concrete Yards Calculator
Convert area/thickness into cubic yards & m³.
Concrete Bag Calculator
Calculate how many concrete bags you need with unit conversions, bag sizes (40/50/60/80 lb & 20 kg), and waste buffers. Covers slabs, footings, posts, and sonotubes.