The Specifications of Quikrete

Bag Size and Yield

• Quikrete sells its commercial grade Quikrete 5000 concrete mix in 60- and 80-lb. bags. The 60-lb. bag makes approximately 0.45 cubic feet of concrete when mixed, while the 80-lb. bag yields approximately 0.60 cubic feet when mixed with water.

Strength

• Although Quikrete can be walked on after just 12 hours, after one day, it can withstand up to 1,500 pounds per square inch (psi). As it cures longer, its strength increases. At three days, it can withstand 2,500 psi, and after a week, it can handle up to 3,500 psi of pressure. When fully cured after 28 days, Quikrete can withstand a load of 5,000 psi.

Mixing Characteristics

• Whether using a mixing barrel or hand-mixing Quikrete, an 80-lb. bag should be mixed with 6 pints of water to start. You can add water, as necessary, up to a maximum of 10 pints per 80-lb. bag. A 60-lb. bag starts with 4.5 pints and can go up to 7 pints. You should plan to have at least 1 cubic foot of space in your mixer for each 80-lb., as well.

Temperature Ranges

• In warm weather, defined as 70 degrees Fahrenheit or above, Quikrete needs five days to cure. If temperatures are between 50 and 70, it will need seven days. It must be kept above 32 degrees for the first 48 hours after it is first applied. Quikrete recommends adding ice to the mix water on very warm days, and using warmed water on cooler days.