How Much Concrete for a 10×10 Driveway?
Quick Answer
For a 10×10 foot driveway pad at the recommended 6-inch thickness, you need 1.85 cubic yards — approximately 83 bags of 80-lb concrete mix.
- 6 inches thick (recommended): 1.85 cubic yards = 83 bags (80 lb)
- 8 inches thick (heavy vehicles): 2.47 cubic yards = 112 bags (80 lb)
- Driveways must be at least 6 inches thick for vehicle traffic
- Use #4 rebar on 18-inch centers for reinforcement
Formula
Driveways require 6-inch minimum thickness (not 4 inches like patios) because they must support vehicle weight.
Step-by-Step Calculation
- 1
Convert 6" thickness to feet
6 ÷ 12 = 0.5 feet
- 2
Calculate cubic feet
10 × 10 × 0.5 = 50 cubic feet
- 3
Convert to cubic yards
50 ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards
- 4
Add 10% for waste
1.85 × 1.10 = 2.04 → order 2.1 cubic yards
Driveway Concrete by Pad Size (6" Thick)
| Pad Size | Square Feet | Cubic Yards | 80-lb Bags | Est. Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10×10 ft | 100 | 1.85 | 83 | $360–$420 |
| 10×20 ft | 200 | 3.70 | 167 | $720–$840 |
| 12×20 ft | 240 | 4.44 | 200 | $865–$1,000 |
| 20×20 ft | 400 | 7.41 | 334 | $1,440–$1,670 |
*Bag cost at $4.50–$5.00 each. Ready-mix ($120–$160/CY) is cheaper for 2+ cubic yards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do driveways need 6 inches of concrete?
Driveways support 3,000–5,000 lb vehicles. A 4-inch slab can crack under repeated vehicle loads. 6 inches provides the compressive strength needed for long-term durability. Commercial driveways need 8+ inches.
What PSI concrete should I use for a driveway?
Use 3,500–4,000 PSI concrete for residential driveways. Standard 3,000 PSI is too weak for regular vehicle traffic. Most ready-mix companies offer 3,500 PSI as their standard driveway mix.
Do I need rebar in a driveway?
Yes. Use #4 rebar on 18-inch centers in both directions, placed at mid-depth. This prevents cracking from vehicle loads and freeze-thaw cycles. Some contractors use fiber mesh as a supplement but not a replacement.