Volumetric and specific weight of concrete in 1 m³

The weight of 1 m³ of concrete depends not only on strength grade, but also on aggregate, water content, compaction, pores and admixtures. It is not possible to determine the exact mass of a cubic meter only from labels such as M200, M300 or M400. Calculations should use the density or unit weight of the specific mix.

In common searches this value is often called the specific weight of concrete, although values in kg/m³ are usually density. For normal-weight concrete made with gravel or crushed stone, a common estimate is 2200-2500 kg/m³.

Concrete weight table by type

These ranges are reference values. The exact weight of one cubic meter should be taken from the mix certificate, design mix or supplier data.

See also: how much 1 m³ of crushed stone weighs and sand weight in 1 m³.

Concrete types by density

Ultra-lightweight concrete contains many air pores or cells. It is used mainly for insulation layers and non-load-bearing fills. The weight of 1 m³ of ultra-lightweight concrete usually does not exceed 500 kg.

Lightweight concrete is produced through a porous structure or lightweight aggregates such as expanded clay, perlite, pumice and similar materials. It is used for blocks, partitions and lightweight structures. The weight of 1 m³ of lightweight concrete is usually within 500-2000 kg, while structural lightweight concrete often uses a narrower range.

Normal-weight concrete is ordinary construction concrete with dense aggregates such as gravel or crushed stone. It usually contains cement, sand, coarse aggregate and water, but exact proportions depend on grade, workability and project requirements. The weight of 1 m³ of normal-weight concrete is most often about 2200-2500 kg.

Heavyweight concrete contains heavy aggregates such as barite, magnetite, hematite, metal scrap and other dense materials. It is used in special structures, including radiation shielding. The weight of 1 m³ of heavyweight concrete usually exceeds 2500 kg and can be much higher depending on the aggregate.

Concrete weight by grade

Concrete grade or class describes strength, not mass. M200 and M400 concrete can have similar density if made with the same aggregate. Weight changes because of cement, water, sand, crushed stone and admixture proportions.

If expanded clay, perlite, pumice or another lightweight aggregate is used, the mass can be lower. If barite, magnetite, metal scrap or other heavy aggregates are used, the mass will be higher.

How to calculate concrete mass

Concrete mass is calculated by the formula:

mass = volume × density

For example, if you need 3 m³ of normal-weight concrete with a density of 2400 kg/m³:

3 × 2400 = 7200 kg

So 3 m³ of this concrete will weigh about 7.2 t.

What affects concrete weight

The mass of one cubic meter depends on:

• aggregate type: granite crushed stone, gravel, expanded clay, barite and other materials have different densities;
• water and cement content;
• compaction and air voids;
• moisture and age of concrete;
• admixtures and special components.

For delivery, floor load calculations and design, use data for the specific concrete mix. Average tables are suitable only for preliminary estimates.