Masonry & Concrete Construction [Paperback]

Kenneth J. Nolan (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 9, 1997

This is the revised edition of the popular manual, with updated information on everything from on-site preplanning and layout through the construction of footings, foundations, walls, fireplaces and chimneys.

There s an added appendix on safety regulations, with all the applicable OSHA sections pulled together into one handy condensed reference. There s new information on concrete, masonry and seismic reinforcement. Plus improved estimating techniques to help you win more construction bids.

The emphasis is on integrating new techniques and improved materials with the tried-and-true methods. Includes information on cement and mortar types, mixes, coloring agents and additives, and suggestions on when, where and how to use them; calculating footing and foundation loads, with tables and formulas to use as references; forming materials and forming systems; pouring and reinforcing concrete slabs and flatwork; block and brick wall construction, including seismic requirements; crack control, masonry veneer construction, brick floors and pavements, including design considerations and materials; and cleaning, painting and repairing all types of masonry.

Product Details

• Paperback: 302 pages
• Publisher: Craftsman Book Co; Rev Sub edition (December 9, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1572180447
• ISBN-13: 978-1572180444
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.4 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #806,147 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

47 of 52 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Masonry and Concrete Construction; Nolan, June 17, 2000

By 

Paul D. Musgrave (McDade, Texas) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Masonry & Concrete Construction (Paperback)

Nolan's Masonry and Concrete Construction is an excellent introduction to the many forms of brick, block, and concrete materials applications. Beginning with the theory and chemistry of concrete and mortar formulation, he then goes chapter by chapter into the various applications. The book is well illustrated with photos and drawings, as well as charts and tables to assist in computations of mixes, materials requirements, load capabilities of footings, etc. A look at the table of contents shows the wide range of subjects discussed. An appendix with regulations for job safety (OSHA) will be useful for those in the trades. The book is well-written in an easy-to-read style. If you have ever experienced the frustration of trying to lay brick with the wrong mortar mixture, (or want to avoid the problems!) this book is for you. The book deals with man-made materials (brick, block, concrete); there is little discussion of stone construction techniques, so that is better found elsewhere.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Not the absolute authority..., June 3, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Masonry & Concrete Construction (Paperback)

I was very dissapointed in this work. The project for which this book was purchased was a block basement and concrete foundation for a new home in southern California. I had hoped that there would be some help in developing techniques and other practical helps. This book was inadequate in these areas. I also discovered that the estimation formulas were inconsistent and inacurate for the project I used it on. I'm sure that this book is applicable in some areas of the country but not in the desert southwest. I also discovered that some of the materials and suggestions are unheard of by professionals in my area (like "Bitumen Modified Urethane"). I would not recommend purchasing this book unless there is no other alternative.

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Not for the beginner, July 20, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Masonry & Concrete Construction (Paperback)

I wanted to learn how to build things out of brick and this book was a big disappointment. It uses terms that you would not know if you were not already involved in the construction industry. There are lots of technical discussions about masonry but not one "hands-on" example of laying brick. I went back and bought the Black and Decker book to learn how to actually work with masonry and I will keep this book for reference on different types of mortars, estimating materials, etc. If you made your living working with masonry this would make a good reference.