Reading list for learning the basics of building

[drw]

I've built a few small projects around the farm, things like chicken coops and a well house and such-like, and I've done wiring and plumbing for my shop, but I've never done a really big project.

SteelDust's horse barn and completely inspired me and I'm really thinking hard about taking the plunge and building one of my own rather than hire it out. But, I've never tackled anything remotely this big before and some aspects of building are not really clear in my mind.

So, does anybody have any good books they recommend? Or is this something that you have to simply learn by doing?

 

[smstonypoint]

IMO, reading certainly helps, but I think I have learned more by doing.

Taunton Press, the folks who publish Fine Homebuilding and Fine Woodworking, have some good books. They have books on framing,trim, etc. -- the whole building gamut.

Two that I like are Working Alone and Measuring, Marking, and Layout, both by John Carroll. The first book gives a lot of useful tips on how you can manage many tasks without assistance. The second book can save you a lot of lumber.

Steve

 

[dstig1]

Do it Yourself Housebuilding by George Nash has a lot of info in it, but it is targeted more at housebuilding rather than generl construction. One of the most complete books on the topic I ever found. Not perfect, but has a lot of great info in it.

 

[drw]

Thank you both. I skipped on the homebuilding book for now. This morning I ordered:

How to Build Small Barns & Outbuildings - Monte Burch

Practical Pole Building Construction: With Plans for Barns, Cabins, & Outbuildings - Leigh Seddon

Measuring, Marking, and Layout: A Builder's Guide - John Carroll

Working Alone: Tips and Techniques for Solo Building - John Carroll

The first two were based on reviews from Amazon. This should be enough to get me started. Thanks again!

 

[TRR]

The journal of light construction is another source of building information. This is oriented to people in the building trades but I don't think you have to be in the trades to purchase books.

JLC Online - Home

 

[ustmd]

For general framing, I highly recommend:

"Graphic Guide to Frame Construction (For Pros By Pros)" by Rob Thallon. Lots of good graphics and presented options.

 

[smstonypoint]

The journal of light construction is another source of building information. This is oriented to people in the building trades but I don't think you have to be in the trades to purchase books.

JLC Online - Home

Good point. They have a forum, too. But fair warning, don't post a question. They take a dim view, a very dim view, of questions from non-pros. I have learned a lot from lurking there.

Good luck with your project.

Steve