by Dirtman » Wed Jul 12, 2006 9:21 am
Brian:
Your calculations are correct. And yes, always order a little more than you think you will need. The sub-base is never perfectly flat and more times than not, a little more is needed. Unless you order more . . . Murphy’s Law!
The reason concrete is poured at a predetermined minimum thickness is due to load bearing and structural strength, not how it settles. Four inches (4") is stronger than three inches (3") of course and if it’s anything but a small sidewalk, I suggest at least four inches.
If I remember correctly, an 80 pound bag of Sacrete (ready mix in a bag, just add water) makes 6/10ths of a cubic foot of concrete. That’s 45 bags a cubic yard. At 0.75 yards, that’s 34 bags. If it’s $3 a bag, that’s $102 not including tax . . . plus, you have to mix every bag!!! That takes time!!!
At four inches (4"), 0.87 yards * 45 = 40 bags
Save yourself aggravation and order a yard of concrete from a plant. There will be a short load charge but the cost should still be around $100 give or take. A quick call to the nearest plant and they will give you a price. The minimum strength I would pour would be 3000 psi mix (5 sack) but check city codes as many require stronger concrete.
FWIW, don’t get the concrete too wet as it’ll make the mix weaker. A good workable consistency is what you want.
If you're going to be walking on it after it's cured, don't get it too smooth or it'll be really slick when it gets wet. A light broom finish will make it safer for walking, especially if it's outside. When you get the concrete with the finish you want, cover it with plastic or a curing compound so the top doesn't dry too quick.
George