Stamped concrete
has become one of the most popular methods to
enhance landscapes and buildings. A rapidly growing
number of homeowners, businesses and municipalities
are becoming inspired by the versatility of stamped
concrete and the wide array of patterns and colors
available.
Decorative concrete contractors can also prosper
from the demand for stamped concrete by learning to
create beautiful, durable stamped concrete using the
latest techniques and procedures.
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Photo courtesy of The Decorative Concrete
Institute. - Harris and crew member striking off
the concrete |
Photo courtesy of The Decorative Concrete
Institute. - Harris Throwing color hardener
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Bob Harris’ Guide to Stamped
Concrete is a full-color, fully illustrated,
step-by-step guide that provides contractors with
detailed information and practical tips to stamping
concrete.
His first book in the Bob Harris Decorative Concrete
Collection, Bob Harris’ Guide to Stained Concrete
Interior Floors, had been an industry bestseller
since its release in February 2004- selling over
1000 copies per month through the American Concrete
Institute, Portland Cement Association, The Concrete
Network, and dozens of construction supply houses
and architectural bookstores across the United
States.

Photo courtesy of The Decorative
Concrete Institute.
Stamping in progress
Bob Harris’ Guide to Stamped Concrete shows
contractors where to find good designs, the five
methods of imparting color to stamped concrete work,
placing the concrete to facilitate stamping, and the
stamping process from A-Z. With a complete,
illustrated description of the entire stamping
process, contractors can apply Bob Harris’ expertise
to their own stamped projects to satisfy their
clients with beautiful, durable works of art in
concrete.
The guide teaches contractors the skills necessary
to produce quality stamped concrete, but also shares
Harris’ professional knowledge of taking stamping to
new levels of originality. From incorporating
architectural finishes into the stamping design to
blending a multitude of colors that mimic natural
materials, this guide provides an in-depth account
of how to go from ordinary to extraordinary with
stamped concrete.

Photo courtesy of Concrete
Impressions.
Bob Harris' Guide to Stamped Concrete is illustrated
with over 200 color photos
The guide covers
topics of vital importance for anyone planning to
stamp concrete, including:
-
Nine sources for stamping
design ideas
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Maximizing your profits by
knowing what to charge
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Concrete mix considerations for
stamping concrete
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Site conditions affecting
stamped concrete work and how to prepare or avoid
them
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How to prepare concrete for
stamping, including tips for striking off and
finishing
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Three important steps to
applying color hardener
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Tools that are essential for
successful stamping
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How and when to start stamping
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Important issues to avoid when
stamping
-
Fixing minor flaws in stamped
concrete work
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Effective techniques for the
application of sealers
-
10 ways to promote and sell
your stamped concrete work
-
How to distinguish your stamped
concrete work from competitors