The Complete Guide to Masonry & Stonework

by Black & Decker, Creative Publishing International (Manufacturer)

No projects offer more aesthetic or financial satisfaction than DIY masonry and stonework projects. Homeowners can routinely save thousands of dollars in labor costs by buying and installing materials that are now readily available for routine purchase. This book includes traditional techniques for laying concrete adapted to the special needs of ordinary homeowners, but also features cutting edge materials and techniques, such as tumbled concrete pavers, acid-etching for colored concrete slabs, and important green paving options, such as rain-garden arroyos and permeable pavers. Several cutting edge projects are included, such as polished concrete countertops and stamped concrete walkways. A complete outdoor kitchen project, ideal for a patio, is also included.

Genres: Reference

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Black & Decker Corporation is an American manufacturer of power tools, accessories, hardware, home improvement products and technology based fastening systems headquartered in Towson, Maryland.


Source: Wikipedia.

Reviews

[Maliades · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just bought a house and boy does it need some work! A coworker was nice enough to lend me this book, but I'm definitely going to buy a copy for myself. This book shows you tons of fabulous techniques & projects: concrete countertops, stone 'moon windows', arches, brick patios and walls, how to cover your siding with bricks or with stone veneer, how to rebuild your firebox, how to make an outside brick BBQ pit... I can go on and on! I am itching to try the 'concrete casting' technique to make a huge birdbath! Not only does it give you all these wonderful ideas, but the instructions make it sound easy enough for anyone to do, and do well! Even my boyfriend can't wait to try out some of the projects. If that doesn't say enough... then you are a lost cause ;-)

[زاهي رستم · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to read this book, coz my worker leave the job in the middle of the work. I renew my garden and my kitchen, using bricks and straw (old country ways).. and now I have to DIY (or should say Do It Myself DIM).

After I have finished, I really get a lot of information, and use this info, to renewing my little garden, and save some money that worker get paid for his unfinished and imperfect job he made.

Very useful for people who want to build a little things, with step by step, and photos, to make u understand every project.. including, bricks paving and laying..

[Mark]

Could be useful in the future but most of it is not our projects. Seems fairly clear; LOTS of pictures. Includes a DVD which supposedly includes the entirety of the print book in electronic form, and a "start-to-finish demonstration of forming, pouring and finishing your own concrete slab."

[The Geekster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for beginners wanting to do masonry work at home.