Concrete Technical Deep Dive
Everything the professional contractor and serious DIYer needs to know about bag concrete mix performance, chemistry, and installation specs at sakretecalculator.com.
Material Specifications
Environmental Requirements
Safety First
Concrete contains cement, which is alkaline and can cause skin irritation or chemical burns.
- Wear waterproof gloves
- Wear safety glasses
- Avoid breathing dust
Project Planning Mastery
A successful concrete project is 90% preparation and 10% pouring. When you use sakretecalculator.com, you're getting the exact volume, but site conditions will dictate the reality of your purchase.
The Importance of Sub-Base
Never pour concrete on top of grass, mud, or loose soil. For a slab that lasts decades, you need to remove topsoil and replace it with 2-4 inches of compacted gravel (crushed stone). This provides drainage and a stable platform that won't shift during freeze-thaw cycles.
The "Over-Pour" Rule
If your site is 100 sq ft, even a 1/4 inch variation in ground depth can change your bag count by 3-5 bags. We always recommend purchasing 10% more than what is calculated at sakretecalculator.com. You can always return unopened bags to the store.
Expansion Joints
Concrete expands and contracts. For any slab longer than 10 feet, you must include expansion joints. This can be done by placing flexible joint strips or by cutting control joints with a saw to 1/4 the depth of the slab within 24 hours of pouring.
Chemical Curing Process
Concrete doesn't "dry"—it hydrates. This is a chemical reaction between the cement and water that creates a crystalline structure. If the water evaporates too quickly, the crystals can't form correctly, leading to a weak, dusty surface.
Moist Curing
Keep the slab wet with a hose or wet burlap. The goal is to prevent evaporation during the first 7 days.
Curing Compounds
If you can't be there to spray water, apply a liquid curing compound which seals the surface to trap internal moisture.