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How much concrete do I need for fence posts?

For setting fence, deck, or mailbox posts. Get bags of fast-setting or regular concrete.

Fast-setting (50 lb)

25 bags

Or regular mix (80 lb)16 bags
Concrete total9.2 cu ft

Estimated material cost

Fast-setting

25 x $$7.00 per 50 lb bag

$175

Estimated total$175

Typical store prices before tax and delivery. Change any price to match your store.

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How to measure

Count the posts, and decide the hole diameter and depth.

Tips from the field

  • Holes should be about three times the post width and a third of the post length deep.
  • Put a few inches of gravel in the bottom of each hole for drainage.

What you'll need

Fast-setting concretePost hole diggerPost levelDrainage gravel

Common questions

How big should a post hole be?

About three times the width of the post, so 10 to 12 inches for a 4x4.

How much concrete per fence post?

About two 50 lb bags of fast-setting concrete for a typical 4x4 in a 10 inch hole, 2 feet deep.

Should I put gravel under posts?

Yes, a few inches of gravel helps water drain away from the bottom of the post.

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