What is sonotube?

Sonotube pipes are changing the construction world and are an ally for anyone looking to build concrete columns or foundations. 

These durable cardboard tubes are designed to hold liquid concrete until it cures, providing a smooth, rounded finish ideal for structural support.

The practical and affordable Sonotubes are incredibly easy to use. Place them where you want them, pour the concrete, and let them do the work. 

Sonotubes are available in various sizes to suit any project, large or small, ensuring accuracy and ease in construction tasks. 

With Sonotubes, you’re not just building; you’re laying the foundation for your project with confidence and reliability. 

What is the benefit of the sonotube calculator?

Sonotube tubes offer several advantages, making them the preferred choice for various construction projects. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Easy to use: sonotubes simplify the production of concrete columns. They are easy to install, fill, and dismantle, making them accessible to hobbyists and professionals alike.
• Saving time: The traditional method of using wooden formwork for concrete is laborious and time-consuming. With Sonotubes, assembling and disassembling the formwork is unnecessary, speeding up the construction process.
• Cost-effectiveness: reinforced cardboard sonotubes are cheaper than conventional molds. Their lightweight reduces transport costs and the need for heavy lifting equipment.
• Versatility: sonotubes are available in various sizes and lengths and can be adapted to suit all project requirements, from small domestic jobs to large construction projects.
• Durability: the acoustic tubes are waterproof for 24 hours, and the custom structures are waterproof for 72 hours, ensuring the integrity of the concrete during the curing process.
• High-quality surface: The bonding between tightly coiled fibers and sonotubes ensures a smooth and even surface, providing a high-quality surface for concrete columns.
• Structural Soundness: The use of acoustic tubes results in structurally sound, durable, and aesthetically pleasing columns, improving the overall quality of the construction

Sonotube Formula

The formula is: Volume of Cylinder = π x r^2 x h

Where: π (pi) = 3.14159 r = radius of the Sonotube (half the diameter) h = height you want to fill the Sonotube

To use this formula, follow these steps:

1. Measure the diameter of your Sonotube in inches or feet. Let’s say it’s 12 inches.
2. Divide the diameter by 2 to get the radius (r). For a 12-inch tube, r = 6 inches = 0.5 feet.
3. Decide the height (h) you want to fill, say 4 feet.
4. Plug these values into the formula: Volume = 3.14159 x (0.5)^2 x 4
5. = 3.14159 x 0.25 x 4
6. = 3.14 cubic feet

So for one 12-inch diameter Sonotube filled 4 feet high, you’ll need about 3.14 cubic feet of concrete.

Multiply this by the number of Sonotubes you need to fill. Adding 5-10% extra is wise to account for any spillage.

The key is knowing the dimensions of your Sonotube and the desired fill height. Then, it’s just using that simple cylinder volume formula. 

How to use this Sonotube calculator?

Our Sonotube calculator is very easy and designed to make your construction projects easier. Here, you will find an easy-to-use guide with some examples to help you get started.

First, the size of the probe tube to be used must be determined. This is the diameter of the concrete column you intend to pour. You’re working on a deck and need a 10-inch diameter column. Enter “10” in the diameter field.

Then, set the height of the column. If you are creating a column that must be 8 feet high, you will enter this number. Remember that if part of the column is underground, add this length to the total height. 

For example, if the column is 2 feet underground for stability, the total height will be 10 feet.

Now, decide how many columns you need if your deck requires four supports, input ‘4’ in the quantity field.

Based on these three pieces of information, the calculator will do its job and tell you how much concrete you need. In our example, the calculator shows that you need 0.6 cubic meters of concrete per column. With four columns, that means a total of 2.4 cubic meters.

And here it is! This gives you a clear idea of the concrete needed for your project so you can work efficiently and avoid wastage. Our Sonotube calculator is here to save the day and ensure your projects look strong and proud.

How to calculate concrete for Sonotubes?

Calculating concrete for sonotubes doesn’t have to be a headache. We break it down into simple steps so you can confidently tackle your project.

First of all, you need to know the dimensions of your sonotube. These dimensions include the diameter and length. 

These dimensions are essential because they determine the volume of concrete required. 

The volume equation is simple: Volume = π x radius² x height.

Just enter the numbers in the calculator, and you’ll get the concrete you need. Remember that a radius is a radius, and ensure all your measurements are in the same units.

Concrete is usually sold in cubic meters, so the volume should be converted from cubic feet to cubic meters. One cubic meter is 27 cubic feet, so divide the total volume by 27 and give this number to the concrete supplier.

pro tip: Always order a little more than you bargained for. It’s better to go a little over than under. Also, the soil may need to be more perfectly level, or you may spill it. It’s always a good idea to have a small supply.

In a nutshell, measure your Sonotube, use the online calculator, convert it to cubic meters, and order more. That’s an easy-to-use guide to getting the right amount of concrete for your Sonotube project. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Sonotube Concrete Calculator