How Much Rebar Do I Need? 2026 Steel Rebar Calculator

🏗️ Planning a construction project in 2026? Over 10,000 USA contractors use our free steel rebar calculator to answer "how much rebar do I need?" Get instant estimates for quantity, weight, and cost for footings, slabs, walls, columns, and beams.

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Steel Rebar Calculator 2026 - How Much Rebar Do You Need?
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How This Rebar Calculator Works (2026 Updated)

Our steel rebar calculator uses the latest 2026 ACI 318 building codes and ASTM standards to answer "how much rebar do I need?" for any construction project. It accounts for all critical factors including:

📐 2026 Rebar Calculation Formula:
Total Linear Feet = (Width in feet × 12 ÷ Spacing + 1) × Length + (Length in feet × 12 ÷ Spacing + 1) × Width
Total Weight (lbs) = Linear Feet × Weight per Foot (from ASTM A615)
Total Cost = (Total Weight ÷ 2000) × Price per Ton + Accessories
All calculations follow ACI 318-26 building code requirements

Rebar Sizes and Specifications (2026 ASTM A615)

#3 Rebar (3/8")

Weight: 0.376 lb/ft
Use: Light duty, slabs, driveways
Lap splice: 15" (40d)

#4 Rebar (1/2")

Weight: 0.668 lb/ft
Use: Residential, footings, walls
Lap splice: 20" (40d)

#5 Rebar (5/8")

Weight: 1.043 lb/ft
Use: Commercial, foundations
Lap splice: 25" (40d)

#6 Rebar (3/4")

Weight: 1.502 lb/ft
Use: Heavy, columns, beams
Lap splice: 34" (45d)

Common Applications: How Much Rebar Do I Need?

🏠 Residential Slab (20'×20')

🏗️ Commercial Footing (30'×4')

2026 Rebar Pricing Guide

Steel prices fluctuate, but here are current 2026 market rates for USA construction:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rebar (2026)

How much rebar do I need for my slab?
For a standard 20'×20' slab with #4 rebar at 18" spacing, you'll need approximately 1,200 linear feet of rebar (about 800 lbs or 0.4 tons). The calculator accounts for both directions and includes waste factor. Enter your dimensions above for exact quantities.
What's the standard rebar spacing for a concrete slab?
For residential slabs, #4 rebar at 12-18 inches is typical. For heavier commercial slabs, #5 at 12 inches. Always check local building codes - our calculator automatically adjusts to minimum spacing requirements based on ACI 318-26 building codes.
How much does rebar cost in 2026?
Current 2026 prices range from $850-1,250 per ton depending on size: #3: $850-950/ton, #4: $900-1,000/ton, #5: $950-1,050/ton, #6: $1,000-1,100/ton. Use our calculator with current prices for accurate estimates.
How do you calculate rebar weight?
Rebar weight is calculated using ASTM A615 standard weights: #3 (0.376 lb/ft), #4 (0.668 lb/ft), #5 (1.043 lb/ft), #6 (1.502 lb/ft), #7 (2.044 lb/ft), #8 (2.670 lb/ft). Our calculator automatically applies these standards.
What size rebar do I need for a footing?
For residential footings, #4 rebar (1/2") is typically sufficient. For heavier loads or commercial projects, #5 (5/8") or #6 (3/4") may be required. Always consult your structural engineer for final specifications.
How much overlap for rebar splices?
Lap splice length is typically 40-50 times the bar diameter. For #4 rebar (1/2"), that's 20" (40×0.5"). For #5 rebar (5/8"), that's 25" (40×0.625). Our calculator includes lap splices when you check that option, adding approximately 10-15% to your total.
How much rebar do I need for a 20x20 slab?
A 20'×20' slab with #4 rebar at 18" spacing requires approximately 1,200 linear feet of rebar, weighing about 800 lbs (0.4 tons). With current prices of $950/ton, material cost would be around $400 plus tie wire.

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Construction Disclaimer (Updated February 2026): This steel rebar calculator provides estimates based on ACI 318 building codes and ASTM A615 standards. Results are for preliminary estimation only and should be verified by a licensed structural engineer for final design. Material prices are estimates based on current market conditions and may vary by location and supplier. Always consult local building codes and professional engineers for your specific project requirements.