3 comments about Project Management in Construction (McGraw-Hill Professional Engineering).

1. I have worked for 3 years in project management company about construction, but I cannot establish transparent concepts about Project Management. At the moment, this book was messiah to me almost drowning in deep mud pool of construction field. Most of all not only beginners to PM but also skillful PM can gain lots of useful informations from this book.



2. This is a carefully written book focusing on competitively bid commercial construction projects using the "design then bid" method of project delivery. The book assumes that the AIA (American Institute of Architects) set of forms will be used - a reasonable assumption since these forms are apropriate and have long been the standard of this delivery system. If lump sum competative bid is the only project delivery method you will use, this book should be helpful.
   
   However, the very different approaches of construction management, and project management involving contractor input through out the project delivery process, are not addressed. So, the concept of continuous quality improvement can not be used. Simlarly the very common AGC forms more apropriate to these delivery systems are not discussed. Although rehab of old buildings (for change management), and design build are covered in chapters 11 and 12, this is an after-thought not central to the book's approach.
   
   Choosing Project Success - A Guide for Building Professionals



3. This is a great book and very informative. I found it to be accurate when comparing and applying to real life work experience. It is also easy to carry. Good read! I recommend.

5 comments about Outdoor Water Features: 16 Easy-to-Build Projects For Your Yard and Garden.

1. Do you like the refreshing sound of lemonade trickling into a glass, only you wish it would last longer? The relaxing sound of running water is refreshing and also attracts wildlife. This book has 16 projects you can build, most quite easily, with simple, readily available materials that will add sound and visual interest to your yard.

   The book has information about tools, materials and plants, well illustrated with photographs and watercolor drawings. There are even maintenance tips. Some of the projects are as small as container fountains and some as large as ponds. They even discuss "bog gardening." Most of the designs fall in the small to medium size range.

   Among the more interesting projects is a "Japanese Deer Scarer" which is an animated bamboo fixture that beats on a rock while dumping water. Also unique is a "Wine Bottle Spray Fountain." (We are avidly gathering the materials for this one as I write.) There are several that utilize sheet copper parts and one made from glass bricks.

   There are lots of good tips on design that you can use for your own variations. If you are only going to buy one book on outdoor water features, get this one. It is sure to be an inspiration for your next weekend "water" project.




2. This a basic slim book that does just what the writers promise. They show the novice gardener how to make 16 water features. There are assorted fountains, including a romantic fountain, bell fountain, perpetual water tap, a cascade and a glass waterfall. There is a still pond, a wall waterspout a cascade and a natural pond. It's fairly standard stuff but there are, after all, only so many ways to present simple how-to-do-it water feature information.

   There are useful sections on tools, materials and pumps, and you'll find plenty of illustrations, including cross-sections of the construction project.

   There is no bibliography, just a reading list that is really tacky because it only lists other books published by the same publisher. Unless you're new to gardening I'd stay away from books published by Storey. There is nothing basically wrong with them, but they lack the depth, originality and insight that the more experienced gardener generally seeks.




3. For anyone wanting to learn how to add water to their yard, this is the book to get. I loved it because the projects are easy to follow and there aren't any steps that you will not be able to do.
   The information at the front of the book lays out a good foundation for the projects that you will find throughout the book. From everything such as designing, planning and the tools you will need, to maintenance and the many projects; this book will lead the path to having the calming effect of water in your yard.
   The illustrations and photography just add to how helpful and very informative this book really is. This book would make a great gift for any gardener.



4. This book has some good information, great design ideas,
   and beautiful pictures. My pond is up and running, and
   the fishies and frogs and water lillies are VERY Happy.



5. I ordered this book as a gift. It shipped fast and I received it in only a few days after. It was exactly what they wanted. Thanks for the great service.

1 comments about Smart Guide: Basements: Step-by-Step Projects (Smart Guide).

1. Part of the outstanding "Smart Guide" series from Creative Homeowner, Basements: Step-By-Step Projects is a no-nonsense, "user friendly" collection of step-by-step projects to insulate walls, update plumbing, install new wiring, eliminate moisture problems and much more in the basement of one's home. Color photographs, diagrams, and detailed instructions distinguish this excellent do-it-yourself resource which is confidently recommended for personal "do-it-yourself" and Interior Design technical reference shelf collections.

1 comments about Contracts and the Legal Environment for Engineers and Architects.

1. I read this book as a contractor seeking to modify my standard contract to that which would apply to architects and engineers as sub-contractors. This book clearly introduces every aspect of contracts, and amplifies the reasoning behind these aspects using cases and examples. This book is only for those who wish to study and apply these concepts. It has no "templates" or boilerplate contracts. It is very valuable in developing an understanding of what is in construction contracts and why.

5 comments about Building with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs): Strength and Energy Efficiency Through Structural Panel Construction (For Pros By Pros).

1. Just a quick note on this book. My wife and I are looking to build an energy-efficient home. We are both engineers and very detail-oriented people. As part of our due diligence, we picked up this book after seeing a demonstration house built with SIPS as part of the 2005 Smithsonian Folk Life Festival (this was part of the US Forest Service pavilion - sustainable building approaches area). As noted in an earlier review, this book does have a bit of a promotional feel. However, it could simply be the author's enthusiasm for what appears to be a very good product. The book is also somewhat light in treating potential problems with SIPS. The failures of mutliple SIP roofing systems in Juneau, Alaska should have been addressed. In fairness though, these failures seem to largely be installation problems on the part of a small number of builders unfamiliar with the product. Overall, this book is a very useful and fairly detailed introduction to SIPS building. We would love to see a follow-up title that goes into much more technical detail on designing for SIPs use, as well as further exploration of lessons-learned from using SIPs in various settings and climates.



2. this book provides a thorough and well detailed look at SIP anatomy and construction techniques. information on this construction type is extremely difficult to find from sources other than (possibly biased or glossed-over) information from SIP manufacturers. the content covers so many details of its construction that it could concievably be used as a primer/manual/textbook for contractors or others interested in using this construction type. any information needed to supplement the information found here will most likely be so specific that it will be material related to a particular manufacturer's product or information gleaned directly from materials testing reports. i have looked extensively, and not been able to find, any materials on SIPs that could compare to the value of this source.



3. Good book to explain the fundamentals and ideas behind why Structural Insulated Panels area a good building medium. Unfortunately, the solid information on estimating the costs or tricks to design that the interested party are looking for are not there.
   
   I look for someone to write the next book in the series.



4. Excellent overview of SIPs construction basics and techniques. Author explains in ordinary terms so any layman can understand. Anyone considering SIPs construction should buy this book. It would be nice if a newer version (this one is 2002)were available to discuss the latest products.



5. This book is a good primer for anyone who has doesn't know much about SIP's, but I found it quite basic. Also, there are passages in the book that show just how badly it is in need of an update. For instance, in the first chapter, it says something to the effect of "...with energy costs being relatively low, builders have a hard time selling energy efficiency and sacrificing the two story fake stone arch...' If this technology is to get a solid foothold in the building industry, MANY books should be written to provide builders with the resources they need to handle both high-end custom homes and affordable homes as well.
   
   In short, if you are just trying to get up to speed on what SIP's are, this is probably worthwhile. Otherwise, spend some time on the phone and visiting with your SIP dealer, talk to contractors who have used them, and look around online. I think you will find more detailed and specific (and UP TO DATE) information.

5 comments about Pottery Barn Dining Spaces (Pottery Barn Design Library).

1. Not a great book for the average person who loves the pottery barn look and wants ideas. This book has few worthwhile ideas. I felt like it was geared to someone who has large amounts of time decorating for every season and every dinner with no budget in mind. If you're interested in typing out menus for a dinner party, making a dockside dining area, or have days on end to kill getting ready for every season than this is the book for you. I got a lot more out of the living rooms book and I now believe if you have one of the books you certainly don't need any others as a lot of the information that is useful is the same.



2. Five stars for the combination of usefulness and presentation of content and the Amazon.com price. I had been wanting the Pottery Barn decorating books but the publisher price ($29.95) was a bit steep considering the number of books in the series. I only started collecting them when I saw a few in a close-out store (a steal at $7.99). I was only able to find a few in the series in the store so I turned to Amazon for the rest of the series. I have scores of decorating books and typically just leaf through them like one would a magazine. I have been pouring over PB Dining Spaces for days now. Folks who entertain frequently will enjoy this book. Room layout, accessories, lighting, furniture and various other aspects are given detailed treatment with regards to how they impact the dining and hosting experience. The language of the text is practical and accessible. The book is filled with richly detailed pictures. If you're uncertain about buying and have a Pottery Barn near you, stop by and leaf through the book. Then, order on amazon for the price.



3. 
   I loved the Pottery Barn book called "HOME", and thought this one would be as good. Unfortunately, this book lacked a variety of ideas, (when it comes to setting a table for parties and such).



4. The book's paper cover arrived home broken. I hope to get help from your team to replace it.
   GOD BLESS



5. Pottery Barn Dining Spaces is exactly what I expected. Excellent business transaction. Thanks

1 comments about Green Living For Dummies (For Dummies (Home & Garden)).

1. This book covers a vast amount of information in the typical Dummy fashion. If you know nothing about living a green lifestyle, Green Living for Dummies will teach you the basics and lots more. Because of the breadth of this book, virtually everyone will learn from it.
   
   The book begins like most green living books do, with an overview of the importance of being green for our deeply troubled Earth.
   
   However, unlike most eco-friendly books I've read, this one covers the gamut:
   
   Green at Home: includes a section on detecting and banishing health hazards like asbestos and lead.Basics on green remodeling and building and on green cleaning.
   
   Chapter on garbage. This was great, as part of the problem is the proper disposal of unwanted stuff. Includes how and what to recycle, including what to do with the problematic computers and cell phones.
   
   Chapter on growing your own food.
   
   The chapter on how to purchase the best green and ethical food was excellent.
   
   Subsequent chapters included green clothing, ethical investments, donations and banking.
   
   Transportation, green travel...
   
   Even working in a green environment was covered.
   
   Like I said, a green soup to nuts books. Lots of good, current information. Highly recommended.
   
   Author of award winning book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet

No comments about Modern Shoestring: Contemporary Architecture on a Budget.

5 comments about Building Electric Guitars: How to Make Solid-Body, Hollow-Body and Semi-Acoustic Electric Guitars and Bass Guitars.

1. I am in the final stages of my first electric guitar. Just about another 10 coats on the neck and a little wiring. Terrible pictures, great info. I find myself refering to Melvyn Hiscock's book (Make Your Own Electric Guitar 2nd edition) for the great (how to) photos and schematics. Both books were a great help. HINT... If this is your first guitar, DON'T use poly-urathane on the neck or body. The book says don't also. So I did. Looks OK now but would have saved me alot of hours if I used lacquer as recomended. I am using autobody (spray can) clear on the neck and it looks great. Have fun



2. Wow, there is a lot of info packed into this book. I agree with most of the other reviewers in that the appearance could be improved. Photos aren't as good as they need to be, but Mr. Koch does a great job of explaining things and the written content is excellent. The only other weak spot, for me, was not enough wiring info for the semi-acoustic version, which is what I intend to build. However, Mr. Koch is accessible and he graciously answered my questions. I'm well pleased with this book.
   
   Ron



3. I purchased this book to aide me in my quest to produce a solid body electric ukulele. I'm having some difficulty understanding the electronics but every other part is easy to understand.



4. Book arrived in excellent condition within the time frame stated. My son was very excited and is working on building his first guitar.



5. I recently purchased this book and I'm impressed at the breadth of information meticulously presented within this book, including how to make your own pickups and how to prepare your wood if you happen to be gung ho enough to saw your own lumber.
   
   I'm not exactly sure how a few others drew the conclusion that this book was poorly organized since my copy seems to be organized clearly enough, unless they have earlier printings. The illustrations and images in my copy seem to be clear enough too as I suspect the author has applied a great deal of effort to tweak later printings to improve his book.
   
   The only downside is that one needs a bit of patience when reading, since Koch is so detailed. This book isn't exactly "Guitar Building for Dummies." On the other hand, patience can be a life and limb saver when operating sharp power tools--so think of his book as a lesson in Zen as well as in lutherie.

5 comments about The House That Faux Built.

1. I loved how they redid the basement! the pictures inspired me to tackle my own basement!



2. Very good ideas and beautiful examples of what can be done with Faux finishing. I was fortunate enough to visit the "House that Faux built" in Virginia and the book has great photographs. Realizing that this is not another how to do it book, but rather an exposure to many marvelous things that can be done with Faux techniques, I have found it to be a good resource for ideas and examples.



3. Loved the ideas in this book. I'm a faux painter and was inspired by the photographs in the book.



4. This book is trully blow you away amazing!!!!!
   I never knew the power of paint. I got great ideas for my own home, did them and sold it for $50,000 over comps in this down market. This is a must have book.



5. HGTV Move over--there is a new star in town! I saw Adrienne in MORE magazine and read about this book. It exceeded all my expectations!!!