And since we are on the topic of concrete (are we really?) ... I have always admired really good brick work -- with particular attention to the pointing. Many years ago I attempted a DIY project to repair my brick patio. BIG MISTAKE. First of all, what is that stuff in-between the bricks? You got your cement, you got your concrete, mortar, stucco, gypsum, grout, plaster, etc. etc. ad nauseum. Ask anyone to clearly define the difference in these products. HAH. Regardless, the instructions are usually the same with slight variations "Just add water or Just add water and sand, and mix". Simple,
Yet working with this stuff for a neophyte is the same as telling someone who has never cooked that in order to make great artisan bread, just mix water and flour, knead and bake.
So much for the digression into what was once
nothing but total frustration.
This page has pictures of what I consider good and bad brick work:
MyWay
How I admire skilled bricklayers (and bread makers for that matter).