Trapezoid Area Calculator

That’s right—real-world spaces often have more personality. Whether it’s to fit a unique lot shape or add a creative touch to landscaping, many patios, walkways, and driveways are built as trapezoids rather than perfect rectangles. While these shapes are functional and attractive, they do introduce a small challenge: figuring out how much concrete you need takes a bit more math.

Want to learn more about other shapes? Try our full collection of Area Calculators.

What Exactly is a Trapezoid?

At its core, a trapezoid is a four-sided polygon with one pair of parallel sides. These parallel edges are known as the bases, and the height is the perpendicular distance between them. This unique shape can look like a slanted rectangle or a wide wedge, depending on the angles.

Here’s a fun historical twist: trapezoids go way back, long before patios and cement mixers. Ancient Egyptian architects cleverly incorporated trapezoidal structures in their designs. The base shapes of temples and tombs were often trapezoids because they balanced stability with material efficiency. Using sloped angles meant fewer stones were needed, while still maintaining impressive strength. Smart then—and still smart today.

So, while you may not be planning a pyramid anytime soon, knowing how to work with trapezoidal measurements can help you with everything from backyard concrete work to sketching up your dream garden path.

How to Work Out Trapezoid Area

Calculating the area of a trapezoid doesn’t have to be difficult. Once you grasp the basics, it’s a smooth process.

The go-to formula is:

Area = ½ × (base1 + base2) × height

Imagine you're designing a custom fabric awning for your backyard patio. Because your deck fans out—wider at the far edge and narrower near your house—the shape of the awning ends up being trapezoidal. Time to put geometry to work.

Here are the measurements you’ve taken:

• Base 1 (longer side): 12 feet

• Base 2 (shorter side): 8 feet

• Height (distance between the two parallel sides): 6 feet

Here’s how to do the math:

Step 1: List Out the Measurements Clearly

• Base 1 = 12 ft

• Base 2 = 8 ft

• Height = 6 ft

Step 2: Use the Trapezoid Area Formula

The formula is:
Area = ½ × (Base 1 + Base 2) × Height

Plug in the numbers:
Area = ½ × (12 + 8) × 6 = ½ × 20 × 6 = 60 square feet

Cool Trapezoid Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Trapezoids might seem like just another four-sided shape at first glance, but they’ve made some surprising appearances throughout history, art, and even psychology. Here are a few fascinating tidbits to boost your appreciation for this underrated geometric star:

• Trapezoids in Ancient Design:
  Civilizations like the Egyptians and Mayans used trapezoids in doors and windows to convey strength and durability.

• Nazca Lines of Peru:
  Some of the mysterious Nazca geoglyphs feature trapezoidal patterns. Archaeologists believe these may have served as ceremonial paths or astronomical markers.

• Optical Illusions & Art:
  The slanted edges of trapezoids make them perfect for creating visual illusions, tricking your brain into seeing depth or motion.

Try These Related Tools

• Need to calculate angled shapes for another project? Use the Triangle Area Calculator.

• Measuring a rectangular slab instead? Use the Rectangle Area Calculator.

• Interested in working with other four-sided figures? Check out the Parallelogram Area Calculator.

Check out Math section to solve math quickly and easily