How many tubes of caulk?
Measure the length and cross-section of the bead you plan to apply. This calculator converts the estimated volume into whole cartridges, with a waste allowance you control.
Sealant quantity
Use inches for width/depth, feet for length and US fluid ounces from the package label.
2.26 theoretical tubes including allowance · 24.3 ft per cartridge before waste.
How this estimate works
For a rectangular joint, cross-sectional area = width × depth (square inches). A triangular corner bead uses half that area. Multiply by length in feet × 12 inches/foot to obtain cubic inches. Add the chosen waste percentage. One US fluid ounce equals 231 ÷ 128 cubic inches; divide the total by cartridge fluid ounces × 231 ÷ 128 and round up to a whole tube.
Worked example
For 50 feet of ¼-inch-wide × ¼-inch-deep rectangular joint, a 10.1 US fl oz cartridge and 10% allowance: 37.50 cubic inches before waste; 2.26 cartridges calculated; buy 3 whole cartridges. The triangular model is only a simplified geometry, not a product guarantee.
What the number does not tell you
Actual yield depends on the product, nozzle, application, joint geometry, surface roughness and material left in the cartridge. Check the manufacturer's coverage chart, product suitability, joint width/depth requirements, curing conditions and directions. Do not use this quantity estimate to design structural, fire-rated, waterproofing or movement joints; consult the relevant manufacturer and qualified installer for those applications.
Sika's product coverage chart and joint-design guidance illustrates why bead width and depth affect coverage; it is product-specific, not universal. Compare your planned measurements with your actual product data sheet.
Related planning: paint coverage estimator and home maintenance budget calculator.