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Strip Foundation Volume Calculator (Complex Shapes)

Calculate concrete volume for continuous strip footings with complex perimeters (L-shapes, U-shapes). Auto-sums linear segments.

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Category Foundation & Concrete

1. Footing Cross Section

2. Perimeter Segments

Segment 1
Segment 2
Segment 3
Segment 4
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About

Standard calculators fail when foundations deviate from simple rectangles. Strip footings often follow complex perimeter lines. They turn corners for bay windows. They extend for attached garages. Or they jog around site obstacles. Calculating these manually invites arithmetic errors.

This tool sums the individual linear segments of your foundation plan. It computes the total running length and determines the required concrete volume. Accurate perimeter logic is essential to prevent over-ordering for overlapping corners or under-ordering due to ignored extensions.

footing calculator foundation concrete linear footing construction estimation perimeter volume

Formulas

The total volume Vtot is derived from the summation of all segment lengths li multiplied by the cross-sectional area defined by width w and depth d.

Vtot = (n∑i=1 li) × w × d

Corner overlap correction is negligible for volume estimation in strip footings if measurements are taken along the center line. If outer-edge measurements are used. volume will be slightly overestimated.

Reference Data

Foundation TypeTypical Width (in)Typical Depth (in)Volume per Linear Ft (ft3)
Light Garage/Shed12121.00
Residential Single Story16121.33
Residential Two Story20121.67
Heavy/Commercial24183.00
Deep Frost Line16485.33

Frequently Asked Questions

The most accurate method is to measure the total "Center Line" length of your foundation. If you measure outer dimensions for all walls. you will slightly over-calculate volume at the corners. which acts as a built-in safety buffer.
A common rule of thumb is that the footing width should be twice the width of the wall it supports. The depth is usually equal to the wall width. Always consult local building codes.
This tool assumes a constant cross-section (width and depth) for the entire strip. If you have different footing sizes. calculate them as separate batches and sum the results manually.