Sonotube Calculator
Calculate concrete volume, bags needed, and cost for cylindrical columns and posts
Calculate Sonotube Requirements
Sonotube Size
Common applications: Standard columns, Structural posts
Column Specifications
Include embedment depth if part of the column will be underground
Concrete Options
Cost Calculation (Optional)
Sonotube Calculation Results
Formula: Volume = π × (diameter/2)² × height
Calculation: π × (12/2)² × 0.00 ft = 0.000 cu ft per column
Total for 1 columns: 0.0 cu ft = 0.000 cu yd
Sonotube size: 12" diameter × 0 feet
Application Guidelines
Example Calculation
Deck Support Project
Project: 6 deck support columns
Sonotube size: 16-inch diameter
Height: 10 feet each (includes 2 feet embedment)
Concrete: 80lb bags, 5% wastage
Calculation Results
Volume per column = π × (16/2)² × 120" = 24,127 in³ = 0.517 cu yd
Total volume = 0.517 cu yd × 6 columns = 3.103 cu yd
Concrete weight = 3.103 cu yd × 27 cu ft/yd × 150 lb/ft³ = 12,567 lbs
With 5% wastage = 12,567 × 1.05 = 13,195 lbs
Bags needed = 13,195 lbs ÷ 80 lbs/bag = 165 bags
Final result: 165 bags of 80lb concrete mix needed
Common Sonotube Sizes
Quick Reference
Installation Tips
Check local codes for embedment depth requirements
Use braces to keep Sonotubes plumb during pour
Add rebar for structural columns
Use form release agent for easy removal
Remove forms before concrete fully hardens
Allow 28 days for full strength development
Understanding Sonotube Calculations
What are Sonotubes?
Sonotube® is a brand of cylindrical concrete forms made from spiral-wound fiber tubes. They're designed to create perfectly round concrete columns and posts for various construction applications, from residential deck supports to commercial building columns.
Common Applications
- •Deck and porch support columns
- •Building structural columns
- •Bridge piers and footings
- •Fence post supports
Volume Calculation Formula
Volume = π × (diameter ÷ 2)² × height
Total Volume = Volume per Column × Number of Columns
Convert inches to feet for consistent units
Important Considerations
- Embedment depth: Include underground portion
- Reinforcement: Add rebar for structural loads
- Bracing: Keep forms vertical during pour
- Form release: Apply agent for easy removal