How many tubes of caulk do I need? Enter every joint on the job, not just one total length. The calculator runs entirely in your browser and saves or sends nothing.
| Joint | Length (ft) | Width (in) | Depth (in) | Bead shape |
|---|
Tube size: Waste %:
Rectangular bead area = width × depth. Round bead area = π × (width ÷ 2)², using width as the bead diameter. Joint volume = length × bead area. Total tubes = ceiling of (total volume × (1 + waste) ÷ tube volume). One fluid ounce = 1.8047 cubic inches, so a 10.1 fl oz cartridge holds about 18.23 cubic inches.
A ¼ in × ¼ in rectangular joint: one 10.1 fl oz tube covers about 24.3 ft (18.23 ÷ 0.0625 ÷ 12). The same width as a round bead covers about 30.9 ft, because a round bead uses less material. That is why different tools quote different coverage for the same tube — they are using different bead models. This page shows its model so you can switch it.
Measure depth, don't guess it. A deep joint with backer rod uses far less caulk than a solid deep joint; if you use backer rod, enter the sealant depth above the rod, not the full gap depth. Does waste matter? Yes: cut tips, starts and stops, and a partly used tube all add waste, which is why a default 10% is included. Is this a purchase decision? No. This tool only estimates quantity; check the sealant maker's instructions for the right product for your surface. This page is not legal, financial or construction advice.
This is a free, single-purpose calculator. All calculation happens in your browser. No account, no upload, no tracking by this page beyond any ads Google may serve after approval.