Sonotube
Trade name for cylindrical cardboard concrete forms used for deck piers and columns, sized by diameter. A 12-inch tube consumes one 80 lb bag per 7.7 inches of height. Volume is the cylinder formula: π × radius² × height.
Where this appears in real estimates
This term isn't trivia — it's a working variable. These tools use it directly:
- concrete column calculator — Cylinder volume for round columns, piers and sonotube pours.…
- figure your deck numbers — Deck boards, joists and fasteners from deck dimensions.…
Go deeper
- Sod vs Grass Seed — head-to-head decision guide
- Concrete Slab or Shed Pad — full project walkthrough
- Fence in California — local pricing & climate
- Read the field guide on the blog — practitioner-level detail
- Related engineering article — from our licensed engineer
Reviewed: · Part of the CalculatorAsphalt Construction Glossary · Sources: see methodology & standards.