# Concrete Footings Cost Guide

> Estimate concrete footing costs for decks, fences, posts, and foundations including excavation, forms, and concrete

**Category:** Construction
**Keywords:** concrete footings, deck footings, post footings, foundation footings, pier footings, footing cost, concrete pier
**URL:** https://complete.tools/concrete-footings-cost-guide

## How it works

The tool calculates costs by taking user-provided inputs for footing dimensions and local material prices. The volume of concrete required is calculated using the formula: Volume = Length × Width × Depth. Once the volume in cubic yards or cubic meters is determined, the tool multiplies this volume by the local price per cubic yard or cubic meter of concrete. Additional costs for excavation and materials like forms are added to arrive at a total estimated cost. Labor rates can also be incorporated based on regional standards.

## Who should use this

1. Contractors estimating costs for residential deck installations.
2. Landscape architects designing outdoor spaces that include fencing.
3. Builders planning the foundation requirements for new homes.
4. Surveyors calculating site preparation costs for commercial projects.

## Worked examples

Example 1: A contractor needs to install footings for a 10-foot by 10-foot deck with a depth of 1.5 feet. The volume of concrete required is calculated as follows: Volume = 10 ft × 10 ft × 1.5 ft = 150 cubic feet. Converting to cubic yards (150 ft³ ÷ 27 = 5.56 yd³), and if local concrete costs $120 per cubic yard, the concrete cost is 5.56 yd³ × $120 = $667.20. Adding $300 for excavation and $100 for forms gives a total estimated cost of $1,067.20.

Example 2: A homeowner is installing a fence with 4 post footings, each 2 feet deep and 1 foot wide. Each footing is 1 cubic foot (1 ft × 1 ft × 2 ft). Total volume for 4 footings is 4 ft³. Converting to cubic yards gives approximately 0.15 yd³. If concrete costs $130 per cubic yard, the concrete cost is 0.15 yd³ × $130 = $19.50. Adding $80 for excavation and $40 for forms results in a total of $139.50.

## Limitations

This tool assumes that the user inputs accurate dimensions for footings. If dimensions are underestimated, the cost will be lower than required. Additionally, the calculations rely on local concrete prices, which can fluctuate based on market conditions and do not account for transportation costs. The tool does not factor in variability in labor costs depending on complexity or site conditions, which may affect the final estimate. It also does not consider specific regional codes or regulations that might necessitate different footing specifications.

## FAQs

**Q:** How does the tool account for different types of concrete mixes?


**A:** The tool assumes a standard concrete mix unless specified otherwise, as prices can vary widely based on the mix type. Users can manually adjust the price per cubic yard to reflect specific mix costs.


**Q:** What depth should footings be installed?


**A:** The required depth for footings depends on local frost lines and the type of structure being supported. Typically, footings should be below the frost line to prevent heaving.


**Q:** Can the tool accommodate irregularly shaped footings?


**A:** The tool is designed primarily for rectangular footings. For irregular shapes, users must calculate the volume separately and input it manually for costing.


**Q:** Does the tool include costs for permits or inspections?


**A:** No, the tool does not include costs associated with permits or inspections, as these vary greatly by location and project type.

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