Concrete Bag Calculator
Determine the exact number of pre-mixed concrete bags (e.g., 40, 60, or 80 lbs) required for your slab, footing, or post project.
1. Enter Dimensions
Select your unit system and shape.
2. Required Bags
Your results will appear here.
Enter dimensions and press Calculate.
Guide to Buying & Using Bagged Concrete
Pre-mixed concrete in bags is perfect for small to medium-sized projects where ordering ready-mix is not practical. It offers convenience and control, ensuring you only mix what you need. Common brands like Quikrete or Sakrete are readily available at most hardware stores.
Tips for Working with Bagged Concrete:
- Check the Yield: Not all bags are created equal. The 'yield' (the volume of concrete a single bag produces) is printed on the bag. Our calculator uses standard yields, but always double-check your specific product.
- Mixing Consistency: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding water. Too little water makes the concrete unworkable, while too much weakens it. Aim for a smooth, peanut-butter-like consistency.
- Work in Batches: Only mix as many bags as you can place and finish within about 20-30 minutes. Concrete begins to cure quickly, especially on warm, windy days.
Using as a Quikrete Bag Estimator
Many users look for a "Quikrete bag estimator," and this calculator is designed to serve that purpose perfectly. While bag yields can vary slightly by product type (e.g., fast-setting vs. high-strength), the values in our dropdown are based on the most common products like Quikrete® Concrete Mix (No. 1101).
For maximum accuracy, check the "yield" printed on the side of the Quikrete bag you intend to use and enter it into the "Custom" fields above. Here is a quick reference for common Quikrete products:
| Quikrete Product | Bag Weight | Approximate Yield |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete Mix (No. 1101) | 80 lb / 60 lb / 40 lb | 0.60 / 0.45 / 0.30 ft³ |
| Fast-Setting Concrete Mix (No. 1004) | 50 lb | 0.375 ft³ |
| High-Strength Concrete Mix (No. 1007) | 80 lb | 0.60 ft³ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much volume does one bag of concrete make?
It varies by bag weight. As a general rule:
- An 80 lb bag yields about 0.60 cubic feet.
- A 60 lb bag yields about 0.45 cubic feet.
- A 50 lb bag yields about 0.38 cubic feet.
- A 40 lb bag yields about 0.30 cubic feet.
This calculator does this math for you, and for ultimate precision, you can use the "Custom" option to enter the exact yield from your bag.
Is it cheaper to buy bags or order ready-mix concrete?
For small projects (less than 1 cubic yard), bagged concrete is almost always cheaper and more convenient. For large projects, ready-mix concrete delivered by a truck is more cost-effective and saves significant labor.
To understand the math behind volume calculations, check out our step-by-step guide.