By Paul Bianchina
A good book can be just as important as a good hammer when it comes to successful building. Here, in no particular order, are some suggestions for excellent reference books to add to your collection or to give as gifts this holiday season (each book is listed by title, followed by the author, publisher and average retail price).
"Wiring: Basic and Advanced Projects," (The Editors of Creative Homeowner, Creative Homeowner, $19.95): If you have a wiring project coming up, this is the book for you. In clear language and illustrated very well with a combination of photographs and drawing, "Wiring" moves you from a basic understanding of electrical terms and how electricity works all the way through wiring methods, fixture and appliance wiring and low voltage and exterior wiring. There are chapters on tools, materials, and even the latest in home data transmission lines. "Build Smarter with Alternative Materials," (Leon A. Frechette, Craftsman Book Company, $34.75): Construction is a field that has changed rapidly in the last decade or so, with any number of new and innovative products coming on the market almost daily. This book will help introduce you to many of these new products, both generically and by specific brand names. Also included is full contact information formation for all of the manufacturers mentioned.
"Rehabilitation of Wood-Frame Houses," (Department of Agriculture, U.S. Government Printing Office, $24.00): The U.S. Government Printing Office is a great source of books on a variety of construction topics. This particular book offers solid advice and information on how to assess the condition of an older wood-frame home, as well as how to rehabilitate and maintain older homes.
"The Complete Home Organizer," (Maxine Ordesky, Grove Press, $22.00): Feeling a little cluttered and disorganized? Help is on its way in the form of this wonderful book on home organization. Beginning with a look at what items you'll want to store and different types of storage, the author moves you through specific storage areas for every room of your house. The book is very well illustrated and the pictures alone will have you itching to dig into that overloaded closet. A nice listing of sources is also included.
"Great Ideas for Wall Systems," (The Editors of Sunset Books, Sunset Books, $12.95): In that same organizational vein, Sunset has done its usual superb job with this book on designing and constructing wall systems. From simple shelving units to intricate bookcases that conceal hidden rooms, there is something here for everyone. The book is wonderfully illustrated, and there are sections on lighting, finishing, library ladder and much more, as well as a source list of manufacturers.
"Expressive Details," (Duo Dickinson, McGraw-Hill, $49.95): Part construction guide, part coffee table art book, "Expressive Details" provides a wide-ranging examination of the many details that make up great architecture. From broad looks at complete structures to intricate inspections of moldings and door locks, this unusual book brings you into contact with many of the features that are so important in construction, yet are often overlooked. Whether you are planning a new home, remodeling an existing one or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship and design, this makes for fascinating reading.
"Easy Things To Make?To Make Things Easy," (Doreen Greenstein, Brookline Books, $15.95): As we age, it's often the little things that make a home convenient - or troublesome. Here's a book that filled with simple ideas for everything from accessible bathrooms and kitchens to easy-grip hairbrushes and slow-dispensing toilet paper rollers. Innovative, well written and filled with simple illustrations, there are some really great ideas here that will prove a tremendous help for the elderly and anyone with physical limitations.
"Contractor's Guide to the BuildingCode," (Jack M. Hageman, Craftsman Book Company, $39.00): Even though it says "contractor" in the title, if you're doing any of your own building this book will help you get through those intimidating building inspections with no problem. Written by an author who's been both a builder and a building inspector, this book will help you understand the building codes and how the apply to every aspect of your project, from excavation to final inspection.
All of these books should be available at local bookstores (with the exception of "Rehabilitation of Wood-Frame Houses,"available through the Government Printing Office bookstores or Web site) - in stock or by special order. Some can also be purchased at home centers and discount outlets, sometimes at reduced prices.
Copyright 2003-2006 Inman News Features. Distributed by Inman News Features
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