About

Planning a construction project often involves comparing different foundation types to suit the soil and budget. This unified tool acts as a central hub, allowing users to estimate materials for the three most common residential foundations: Strip (Continuous), Monolithic Slab, and Pile (Post).

Unlike simple volume calculators, this tool integrates a Cost Estimator. By inputting local material prices (e.g., price per cubic yard of ready-mix), builders can instantly see the financial impact of their design choices. It is designed to save progress automatically, allowing you to toggle between types without re-entering dimensions.

Formulas

Each type uses specific geometry:

{

Strip: V = Perimeter × Width × DepthSlab: V = Area × ThicknessPile: V = Count × (π × r² × Depth)

Total Cost is derived simply:

Cost = (V_conc × Price_conc) + (Weight_rebar × Price_steel)

Reference Data

Foundation Type	Best For	Key Cost Factor	Typical Concrete Use
Strip (Continuous)	Load-bearing walls, stable soil	Perimeter Length	Moderate
Monolithic Slab	Flat ground, garages, warm climates	Surface Area	High
Pile (Column)	Slopes, sheds, decks, weak soil	Number of Piles	Low

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The tool uses your browser's LocalStorage to remember your Unit Prices (e.g., cost of concrete per m³) so you don't have to re-type them every time you use the calculator.

Generally, Pile foundations use the least concrete, making them cheapest for light structures (decks, sheds). Strip foundations are mid-range. Slabs are often the most expensive due to the massive volume of concrete required, but they double as the ground floor.