Now available. The QUIKRETE® Companies has authored a new book "Guide to Concrete, Masonry & Stucco Projects" to provide accurate, detailed project instruction for homeowners with novice to advanced skills. The QUIKRETE® Companies is the largest manufacturer of packaged concrete and cement mixes in the United States and Canada, and an innovative leader in the home improvement and commercial building industries.

The book is available for purchase at home improvement centers, hardware retailers, national bookstore chains and online for a suggested price of $19.95.

Written with straightforward language and hundreds of full-color illustrations, the 160-page soft cover book offers a collection of concrete, masonry and stucco project information and techniques. The book addresses six principal topics: Walkways, Patios & Steps, Outdoor Home & Landscaping, Walls & Wall Finishes, Indoor Projects, Concrete & Masonry Repairs and Tools & Techniques.

Throughout these chapters, readers are shown how to build using concrete, masonry and stucco - from traditional applications, such as patios, steps and walkways, to contemporary favorites like countertops, outdoor kitchens and staining projects. Covering numerous other topics, including concrete and masonry repair and restoration, the book summarizes the tools and materials, terminology, calculations, basic engineering and helpful hints needed for project success.

"Of all the building materials used in and around the home, few can match the quality, enduring beauty and design possibilities of concrete," said Dennis Winchester, QUIKRETE® executive vice president. "We wanted to write a book to educate the public about proper applications, techniques and building practices with regards to working with concrete, as well as masonry and stucco. This book is the definitive guide for using these long-lasting, versatile materials."

With each project, there is a QUIK-DATA chart to provide an at a glance rating of the relative cost, amount of skill and time required. The projects also include a QUIK-TIP graphic with helpful hints and insights learned from the experts.

The new book is the first in a series of QUIKRETE® books written in cooperation with Creative Publishing Int.