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Slab Dimensions

Bottom Layer

Top Layer (Optional)

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About

Monolithic concrete slabs typically require a 'mat' or 'grid' of reinforcement bars running in two perpendicular directions (X and Y). For thicker structural slabs, this often involves two separate layers: a Bottom Mesh (to resist sagging/tension) and a Top Mesh (to resist hogging/cracking over supports).

This engineering tool calculates the total linear meterage and subsequent weight of steel required for such setups. It is particularly useful for comparing design efficiency—for example, seeing how changing from 12mm bars @ 200mm spacing to 10mm bars @ 150mm spacing affects the total steel tonnage.

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Formulas

Total weight is calculated by determining the number of bars in each direction and multiplying by the span length and unit weight.

Nx = (LySpacing + 1)
Wlayer = (NxLx + NyLy) × wbar

If a top layer is enabled, the calculation repeats and is added to the total.

Reference Data

Grid Pitch (mm)Bars per MeterWeight Factor (10mm)Weight Factor (12mm)
100 mm10.06.17 kg/m²8.88 kg/m²
125 mm8.04.94 kg/m²7.10 kg/m²
150 mm6.74.11 kg/m²5.92 kg/m²
200 mm5.03.09 kg/m²4.44 kg/m²
250 mm4.02.47 kg/m²3.55 kg/m²
300 mm3.32.06 kg/m²2.96 kg/m²

Frequently Asked Questions

Bottom reinforcement (tension reinforcement) is placed near the bottom of the slab to resist the downward bending load in the middle of the span. Top reinforcement is placed near the top, usually over walls or columns, to resist negative moments where the slab tries to bend upwards.
Yes. Structural designs often specify different spacings (e.g., Main bars @ 150mm and Distribution bars @ 250mm). This calculator allows independent configuration for both directions.
This tool calculates the net theoretical weight of the grid. For large slabs where bar lengths exceed stock lengths (e.g., >12m), you should manually add a 10-15% margin for laps.