This calculator gives you cubic yards of concrete plus Sakrete-specific bag counts for any slab, footing, or post hole. Same formula as our generic Concrete Calculator — just with Sakrete-specific bag conversions in the article.
How Sakrete bag counts work
order = volume × 1.10 (10% waste)
bags = volume × bags_per_yard
Sakrete sells concrete mix in three primary bag sizes — each yields different cubic feet:
| Sakrete product | Bag size | Yield per bag | Bags per cu yd |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sakrete 5000 Plus | 60 lb | 0.45 cu ft | 60 |
| Sakrete 5000 Plus | 80 lb | 0.60 cu ft | 45 |
| Sakrete Maximizer | 80 lb | 0.66 cu ft | 41 |
| Sakrete Fast-Setting | 50 lb | 0.375 cu ft | 72 |
| Sakrete Crack Resistant | 80 lb | 0.60 cu ft | 45 |
Sakrete product picker
- Slabs, walkways, patios, footings: Sakrete 5000 Plus (60 or 80 lb)
- Setting posts (mailbox, fence): Sakrete Fast-Setting — sets in 30 min, no mixing required
- Lighter / better workability: Sakrete Maximizer — same strength, lighter aggregate
- Slabs in freeze-thaw climates: Sakrete Crack Resistant — fiber-reinforced
- Cold-weather pours: Sakrete High Early Strength — gains strength faster in cold
Sakrete bag pricing reference (2026)
Approximate retail prices at Home Depot / Lowe’s:
| Product | Bag size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sakrete 5000 Plus | 60 lb | $4.50 |
| Sakrete 5000 Plus | 80 lb | $5.25 |
| Sakrete Maximizer | 80 lb | $7.00 |
| Sakrete Fast-Setting | 50 lb | $5.75 |
For a 1 cu yd job (about 25 sq ft of 4" slab):
- 45 × 80 lb bags @ $5.25 = $236
- OR ready-mix delivery: $200-250
Above 1 cu yd, ready-mix wins.
Mixing tips
Sakrete needs 0.4–0.5 gallons of water per 60 lb bag (slightly less for 80 lb). Add water gradually — too much weakens the concrete. The mix should hold a shape when you scoop a handful, not slump or run.
For posts and small jobs, Fast-Setting goes straight into the hole dry, then water is poured on top. For everything else, mix in a wheelbarrow or mixer first.
When to skip Sakrete and call ready-mix
Once your job exceeds 1 cubic yard (about 45 × 80 lb bags), ready-mix delivery is cheaper, faster, and produces a more uniform pour. The math:
- 45 bags × $5.25 = $236 + ~3 hours of mixing labor
- 1 cu yd ready-mix delivery = $200-250 + 30 minutes from chute to slab
For larger pours, ready-mix is the obvious choice.
Frequently asked questions
How many bags of Sakrete in a yard?
60 lb bags: 60 bags per cu yd. 80 lb bags (Maximizer): 41 bags per cu yd. 50 lb bags (Fast-Setting): 72 bags per cu yd. The calculator gives cu yd; multiply by the bag-per-yard count for your bag size.
Which Sakrete product should I use?
Sakrete 5000 Plus is the all-purpose 5000 PSI concrete — what you want for slabs, footings, and most general work. Sakrete Maximizer covers ~50% more area per bag (lighter aggregate). Sakrete Fast-Setting sets in 30 minutes for posts and quick repairs.
How does Sakrete compare to Quikrete?
Both are 4000-5000 PSI ready-mix in similar bag sizes. Sakrete typically runs $0.25-0.50 less per bag at most regional retailers. Strength and workability are equivalent. Pick whichever is cheaper at your local Lowe's or Home Depot — the formulations are interchangeable.
When should I switch from Sakrete bags to ready-mix?
Above 1 cubic yard (about 60 × 60 lb bags = $240+), ready-mix delivery is cheaper and faster. Below 0.5 cu yd, bags win because of the delivery minimum. Between 0.5-1 cu yd is a judgment call based on whether you have help to mix bags.
Should I add 10% extra Sakrete?
Yes — the calculator includes 10% by default. Concrete is unforgiving once mixed. Better to have 1-2 extra bags than to be short with the truck on-site (or in this case, with the mixer running).