No comments about The Kitchen Handbook.

No comments about 101 Quick Fixes in and Around Your Home.

3 comments about Builder's Guide to Cosmetic Remolding (Builder's Guide).

1. I bought this book for my husband to read since he is doing the remodeling and renovating of our 100+ year old home. He didn't look at it, and I ended up reading it. The book is well written, and I learned a lot from it. Unfortunately I am not a contractor, so I don't get any use from the information at all. The book is meant for general building contractors who are knew to the business, or maybe want some fresh ideas on how to win a job contract. If that sounds like you, I think you may find this book useful.



2. It looks like something that was photo copied back in the 1970's on a machine that should have been retired. Very poor quality. I purchased a used book. I would have been very upset had I paid the new price of $24.95 for it.



3. It would almost seem like the title was trying to help sell the book as having something it didn't: insight to what contractors would benefit knowing in terms of cosmetic aspects of construction. In my opinion, good contractors have knowledge waaaaaay past this book. Chapter on basements starts out by saying they could spend several chapters on the topic and not do it justice. So, they stick to basics. I'd say, why bother if you can't cover things well? They say vinyl flooring and carpet are good choices, with carpet less so if there's a water problem in the basement. Duh! So goes the entire book. Yes, most of us know that floors, walls, and ceilings need finishing, and there are many types available. You're better off going to Lowe's or even Home Depot and getting advice from their interior finish experts.
   
   As example of how the book could have been improved, the issue of water migration through slabs is overlooked by many contractors. This is a point to make. Also, they could have conveyed methods on how to test for moisture migrating up through a slab, in addition to clear cases of water intrusion. As a water intrusion expert, every (every) floor in So Cal I evaluated due to water damage coming up through the slab, didn't have an adequate vapor/water barrier. Sure, some adhesives are rated to serve as vapor barriers as well. There are so many variables involved in a successful application, IMO, contractor-to-contractor, this is one area I'd recommend belt-and-suspender approaches. Now, that is good info for a contrator about cosmetic renovation. Again, in my opinion.

3 comments about Graphic Guide to Interior Detail (Graphic Guide).

1. The Graphic Guide to Interior Details: For Builders and Deigners gives a comprehensive analysis and break down, not only for professionals in the industry, but for the first time home buyer, or for people who are just plain interested in built structures.There are endless details and drawings that are accompanied by current and up to date information that not only complies with modern day building codes and standards,but also has innovative and progressive techniques for the future. I'm a student that has gotten great use and resource out of this book.



2. Here you will find up-to-date information about virtually every material involved in interior construction - common and uncommon, residential and commercial - so you can compare key factors and make the best decisions for all of your projects.
   
   Illustrated with hundreds of clear drawings that can be easily incorporated into architectural plans and show how these materials connect to the structure of a building and to each other. Here is information on everything from drywall to resilient flooring, from raised panelling and colored concrete to banisters, handraios, door trim and cabinet hardware.
   
   Written by a practicing architect with his own firm, the drawings and descriptions have been reviewed for accuracy by independent architects and builders from all over the country. The result is an unrivalled guide to finishing the inside of a house.



3. I purchased this because I was very impressed with the "Graphic Guide to Frame Construction" book. I was much less impressed
   by this book - lighter on the details and less updated.

1 comments about The Bluebook of Cleaning, Reconstruction and Repair Costs, 1999.

1. great book for use with the insurance and restoration industry. This book actually reports the price of what the contractors should charge for specific trades. It also contains some very hard to find prices on water drying equipment and hazardous waste cleanup as well as your everyday trades.

   Awesome. Does lack a little in contents replacement costs but has all the contents cleaning anyone could want. It is also the easiest price book as far as being straight forward in its costs.

   Get this one over means or craftman, its just better and represents the industry a little better.

No comments about Remodeling Coastbook 2004 (Remodeling Costbook).

No comments about Means Residential Repair and Remodeling Costs: Contractors Pricing Guide 2003 (Means Contractor's Pricing Guide: Residental Repair & Remodeling).

No comments about Home Extensions: Planning, Managing and Completing Your Extension.

No comments about Builder's Guide to Barriers: Doors, Windows, & Trim (Builder's Guide Series).

No comments about Stone and Plasterwork (Practical Home Restoration Series).