Plan patio costs with fast, detailed line items. Tune concrete, thickness, and reinforcement for accuracy better. Add labor, base, drainage, and finishes confidently today.
| Length (ft) | Width (ft) | Thickness (in) | Concrete ($/yd³) | Waste (%) | Labor (hrs) | Tax (%) | Estimated Total ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 10 | 4 | 160 | 8 | 16 | 0 | Varies by options |
| 16 | 12 | 4 | 175 | 10 | 22 | 7 | Varies by options |
| 20 | 14 | 5 | 185 | 8 | 30 | 7 | Varies by options |
Tip: increase labor hours for tight access or complex forms.
This calculator treats reinforcement and forms as direct line-item inputs.
Estimate, export, and build your patio budget with confidence.
Start with the slab footprint: measure length and width at the finished edges, then confirm any step‑outs or thickened borders. Multiply to get square footage, and use that area to size concrete, base, and finishing. For irregular shapes, split the patio into rectangles and sum areas. Before ordering any materials.
Most residential patios use 4 inches thickness, while 5 to 6 inches fits heavier loads like hot tubs or outdoor kitchens. Thickness affects volume directly, so small changes move cost quickly. Higher‑strength mixes can raise unit cost per cubic yard. In freeze‑thaw climates, contractors may specify air‑entrained mixes.
Concrete is purchased by cubic yard. The calculator converts slab volume to cubic yards, then adds a waste factor. Waste commonly runs 5% for simple pours to 10%+ for complex forms or tight access. Ordering slightly extra helps avoid cold joints and short loads.
A compacted base improves stability and moisture handling. A 3 to 6 inch gravel base is often used where soils are expansive or drainage is poor. Depth increases hauling, but can reduce settlement and cracking later. Compact in lifts and verify grade and slope before placing forms. Include excavation and disposal when removing sod or old concrete.
Reinforcement is priced as a line item because options vary. Wire mesh, rebar grids, and fiber additives have different costs and installation needs. Reinforcement will not prevent cracks, but it limits crack width and helps panels stay aligned. Pair reinforcement with jointing. Chairs and tie wire are small items that still matter.
Finish selection changes labor and materials. Broom finishes are economical and slip‑resistant, while stamped or colored surfaces add time and sealing. Control joints are often spaced about 24 to 30 times slab thickness in inches (4 inches yields roughly 8 to 10 feet). Formed borders add effort.
Labor depends on access and complexity. Long wheelbarrow runs, gates, slopes, and limited staging increase hours. Equipment rentals for compactors or buggies can stabilize scheduling. Delivery fees may apply for short loads or remote sites, so capture them separately. Add allowances for cutting joints and cleanup.
After subtotaling, apply tax where applicable, then add contingency for weather delays, subgrade surprises, or design changes. Many planners use 5% to 15% depending on uncertainty. Export the CSV or PDF to compare bids line‑by‑line and confirm matching thickness, base, and finish scope. Document assumptions so revisions stay consistent.
It uses measured length, width, thickness, and a waste percentage. Accuracy improves when you measure finished edges, include thickened borders, and choose a realistic waste factor for access and form complexity.
Four inches suits typical foot traffic and patio furniture. Consider five to six inches for hot tubs, outdoor kitchens, or higher loads. Local codes and soil conditions may require specific thickness.
A compacted base can improve drainage and reduce settlement, especially on clay soils or filled ground. If the existing subgrade is stable and well‑draining, base requirements may be minimal.
Yes. Reinforcement helps control crack width and keeps panels aligned. Combine reinforcement with proper joint spacing, good base compaction, and curing to reduce visible cracking risk.
Broom is typically the most economical. Stamped, colored, or exposed aggregate finishes add labor and materials, plus sealing steps. Use the finishing rate per square foot to model these differences.
Many homeowners use 5% to 15%. Choose the higher end for uncertain soil, demolition, drainage work, or complex shapes. Lower contingency can work for simple, well‑understood replacements.
Yes. Exported line items help you compare bids on scope, thickness, base depth, finishes, and allowances. Ask contractors to confirm what is included in each category before deciding.
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.