1 comments about The Home How-To Handbook: Electrical: Tools, Techniques, and Quick Fixes.

1. This book is very well presented both graphically and with the text. Easy to follow and understand.

1 comments about The Self-Sufficiency Specialist: The Essential Guide to Designing and Planning for Off-Grid Self-Reliance (Specialist Series).

1. This book is one that I regret spending money on......it gave brief descriptions of things you could do like raise chickens. This thin paperback book is very light reading....it is not a how to manual. Don't waste your money on this one.

No comments about Dream Backyards: From Planters to Decks, Over 30 Projects to Create a Beautiful Outdoor Living Space.

No comments about The Essential Guide to Foundations (Home Building & Remodeling Basics) (Home Building & Remodeling Basics).

No comments about Home How-To Handbook: Trim.

3 comments about Building Your Own House: Everything You Need to Know About Home Construction from Start to Finish/Part I & Part II.

1. This book is a combination of two books. The first and largest section is an older, existing book on building a sealed-in structure up to the external millwork. The second section covers the interior, to include mechanicals, drywall, flooring, tilework, and then outside to decking.

   The first section is older and written from a bit of the "new age" alternative housing viewpoint that was popular in the '70s but has ever since branded builder-owners as kooks. Examples are given of log homes, geodesic domes, and sod houses that may be just a tad tough to get financed and are certain to have your subdivision up in arms. There was no mention of cutting-edge energy-efficient building materials such as SIPs or concrete-filled styrofoam. That being said, the rest of the section is a strong primer on building a stick-built house from foundation to roof with lots of photos.

   The second section was more up to date, but not as comprehensive as the first section. Drawings replaced photos. The chapters on indoor millwork, drywall, and flooring are good, but the chapters on electrical and plumbing lack. There is nothing on HVAC.

   I will keep this book for the exacting step-by-step tutorial on stick building and interior woodwork.




2. This book started out with good intentions, but is so laughably out of date that it is hard to read with a straight face. The section on windows does not even list vinyl as one of the options. It might be a good starting point for someone with no experience, but it is past time for a serious make over.



3. Although there was some sound advise, the illustrations were outdated by about 20 years. If I had it to do over again, I would have bought a book that offered more uptodate photos.

No comments about Smart Guide: Painting: Interior and Exterior Painting Step by Step.

2 comments about Paint Transformations (Do It Yourself).

1. This is another Taunton book that is part of the "do it Now, do it Fast, do it Right" series. This one addresses changing a room with paint.
   
   What is so good about this book is that it includes detailed color photographs with it's step-by-step guide for each project. Each project includes info on tools, materials and tips on how to do it right. There is also a side bar called "What's Different" where they point out diferences in products you may use (for example, joint compound).
   
   I picked up this book because it contained several projects I was especially interested in: painting trim, striping walls, painting floors and painting cabinets. Of course there are many more projects, including other paint techniques like strie walls, stencils, splatter, painting a cloud ceiling and "old world techniques.
   
   This is a great book for those who want a detailed guide on how to paint and need step-by-step guides for specific projects.



2. This book is great for beginners who do not have the artistic eye. There are step by step directions and a lot of large colorful photos to make even the beginner paint like a pro. They also offer variations on each project so that you can customize your look. Each project also has a detailed list of the tools you will need so you will be completely ready before you start your project.

1 comments about The Essential Guide to Framing (Home Building & Remodeling Basics) (Home Building & Remodeling Basics).

1. I am very happy with this book. The illustrations and text are clear and easy to understand. As an advanced and agressive DIY homeowner, this book has become my "bible" on framing up projects.
   
   Highly recommended.

2 comments about The Essential Moving Planning Kit.

1. I am in the process of moving my residence and have purchased "The Essential Moving Planning Kit." Recently, I married and used the Wedding Planning Kit. I found that the wedding kit had kept me so organized that I couldn't wait to get starting with the moving kit. Moving one's residence can be emotionally difficult, especially when one isn't organized; but with an aid, such as the "The Essential Moving Planning Kit," my task has been definitely eased.



2. This book is a lot of fluff and filler, and not one original thought to be had. Its contents could easily be condensed to one or two pages, but they use all kinds of "title pages" and other tricks to try and make it look like a substantial-size book. Don't waste your money or time.