Concrete is relatively inexpensive to install and provides an attractive, durable surface that is easy to maintain.

But to deliver high-quality, long-lasting products, concrete flatwork finishers need to be aware of and adhere to standard practices and procedures.

The latest publication from Portland Cement Association (PCA), Concrete Finisher's Guide, provides the best practices for placing, finishing and curing concrete flatwork.

A replacement manual for PCA's Cement Mason's Guide, the Concrete

Finisher's Guide expands beyond a step-by-step explanation on finishing concrete.

Readers receive information on how to select materials, the proper tools for projects and what safety procedures need to be in place.

The book provides detailed explanations on how surface defects such as dusting and cracking form and what factors the contractor can control to reduce their occurrence on a project.

Readers are taken through the construction process, starting with how to select appropriate materials, a pre-construction checklist, and detailed instructions on finishing concrete flatwork and building concrete steps.

The manual's appendix provides answers to frequency asked questions and tips on estimating the volume of concrete necessary for a project.

For more information or to order, visit the PCA Bookstore at www.cement.org/bookstore . Orders can also be placed by calling (800) 868-6733.