Plan subbase volume, weight, and deliveries accurately now. Include waste, moisture, and compaction adjustments easily. Download reports, reduce rework, and order materials confidently always.
| Project | Shape | Dimensions | Thickness | Waste | Compaction | Loose volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driveway pad | Rectangle | 12 m × 8 m | 150 mm | 5% | 10% | 15.84 m³ |
| Round footing zone | Circle | Radius 4 m | 200 mm | 7% | 12% | 11.30 m³ |
| Walkway base | Area | 55 m² | 100 mm | 4% | 8% | 6.18 m³ |
Accurate subbase takeoff starts with footprint and compacted thickness. Choose rectangle, circle, or enter measured area from drawings or takeoff software. Metric uses meters and millimeters; imperial uses feet and inches. The calculator converts everything internally, so results stay consistent. For irregular shapes, sum areas by zones and run separate entries when thickness changes across the project. Include planned shoulder extensions, overbreak, and tie-ins to existing pavement when defining the footprint for accurate ordering.
Rectangles use A = L × W and circles use A = π × R². Imperial dimensions convert to meters, while square feet convert to square meters. Thickness converts from inches or millimeters to meters. This single unit base prevents hidden errors during estimation and reporting. Keep your selected unit system aligned with field measurements to avoid double conversions.
Material is delivered loose but must meet a compacted design. The calculator first computes compacted volume Vc = A × T, then applies compaction and waste factors. Loose volume is V = Vc × (1 + C/100) × (1 + W/100). Use higher compaction allowance for aggregates that densify strongly, and higher waste where trimming and edge losses are expected.
When density is provided, the tool estimates mass for quotation checks and hauling limits. Enter density from supplier data or prior tests, matching the delivered condition. Optional truck capacity converts volume to estimated loads, supporting delivery schedules and stockpile planning. Compare loads with site access, tipping locations, and placement sequence to reduce rehandling and delays.
Confirm subgrade elevations, crossfall, and boundaries match the measured area. Separate calculations for staged lifts or different thickness zones, then combine totals for procurement. Verify you are estimating the correct layer, especially where base course differs from subbase. Export the report and attach it to the purchase request so assumptions, allowances, and quantities remain traceable for review.
Enter the compacted design thickness. The calculator adds compaction allowance to estimate the loose quantity you must order and deliver.
Use your project specification or historical data. Typical allowances range from 5% to 15%, depending on aggregate gradation, moisture control, and compaction equipment.
Run the calculator once for each zone or lift using its own area and thickness. Then add the loose volumes together for procurement.
Use supplier submittals, quarry data, or recent lab results. Density should represent the delivered material condition you are paying for.
The tool calculates in a consistent base unit and then shows common conversions. This helps communication between design teams, suppliers, and crews using different unit systems.
Yes, if you enter a realistic per-load capacity for your trucks. Always check local haul limits, material bulking, and site access constraints before final scheduling.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.