Work out how much caulk or sealant to buy. Enter the length, width and depth of the joint (or a corner bead) to get the volume and the number of 10.1 oz cartridges, 28 oz tubes, squeeze tubes or metric cartridges, plus how far one tube goes and backer-rod advice.
Last updated:
Units
ft
m
in
1/8 = 0.125, 1/4 = 0.25, 3/8 = 0.375, 1/2 = 0.5
mm
in
mm
%
Enter your values to see the result.
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How to use the Caulk Calculator
Choose units and enter the total joint length and how many identical joints you have.
Enter the joint width and depth, and pick a gap joint or a corner fillet bead.
Pick the container size you plan to buy and a waste allowance.
Read how many tubes you need and how far each tube goes.
Example: 100 ft of 1/4 × 1/4 in joint = 0.0625 in² × 1,200 in = 75 in³ = 1,229 mL. With 10% waste that is 1,352 mL, or 5 cartridges of 10.1 oz (4.5 rounded up).
Linear feet per 10.1 oz cartridge
Joint width × depth
Square joint
Triangular bead
1/8 × 1/8 in
97 ft
194 ft
1/4 × 1/8 in
49 ft
97 ft
1/4 × 1/4 in
24 ft
49 ft
3/8 × 1/4 in
16 ft
32 ft
3/8 × 3/8 in
11 ft
22 ft
1/2 × 1/4 in
12 ft
24 ft
1/2 × 1/2 in
6 ft
12 ft
3/4 × 3/8 in
5.4 ft
11 ft
Cut the nozzle to the width of the bead you want: a smaller hole lays a thinner bead and makes each tube go further.
Frequently asked questions
How many linear feet does a tube of caulk cover?
A standard 10.1 oz cartridge holds about 18.2 cubic inches. In a 1/4 × 1/4 in joint it fills about 24 linear feet, in a 1/8 × 1/8 in joint about 97 ft, in a 3/8 × 3/8 in joint about 11 ft and in a 1/2 × 1/2 in joint about 6 ft. A triangular corner bead covers twice the length of a square joint of the same width and depth.
How do I calculate how much caulk I need?
Multiply the joint width by its depth (divide by 2 for a triangular corner bead) and by the length, all in inches, to get cubic inches. Convert to milliliters by multiplying by 16.39, add 5–10% for waste, and divide by the tube size (299 mL for a 10.1 oz cartridge).
How deep should a caulk joint be?
For joints up to about 1/2 in wide, the sealant depth is usually about equal to the width (with a minimum of 1/4 in). For wider joints, make it about half the width. Use a backer rod in deep gaps so the caulk bonds only to the two sides and can stretch.
What is a backer rod and when do I need one?
A backer rod is a round foam cord pushed into a gap before caulking. It controls the depth, saves caulk and prevents three-sided adhesion so the joint can move without tearing. Use one for gaps deeper than about 1/2 in, choosing a rod about 25% wider than the gap.
How much is in a 10.1 oz tube of caulk in mL?
10.1 US fluid ounces is about 299 mL, which is why it is often listed as 300 mL. A 28 oz cartridge holds about 828 mL and a 5.5 oz squeeze tube about 163 mL.
Is my data sent anywhere?
No. Everything is calculated in your browser.
Are all the tools on FreeToolCabin tested for quality and accuracy?
Yes! Every tool on our site undergoes automated Q/A testing in real browser environments to ensure high precision, correct output, and zero errors. If you happen to spot a bug or have a suggestion, please contact us at [email protected] and our team will review it right away.