Review of Trim Carpentry and Built-Ins

November 26th, 2008 — Book Review, Trim, carpentry 

Taunton is a well known DIY publisher and their latest book, Trim Carpentry and Built-Ins is the perfect read for any DIY’er or owner of an older home. You’ll find just about everything you could ever want to know about trim - how to make it, how to take care of it and how to add more into your home. As the title suggests, built-ins are covered and there is some great advice in there for homeowners with Craftsman style interiors or even just a few built-ins.

Although the book is relatively small, don’t let its size fool you. There is a lot of information packed into its 166 pages. You’ll find plenty of diagrams and illustrations to make the projects easier and overall the visual presentation is very impressive. Too many DIY books don’t include enough of these, but chances are you won’t be disappointed with this one.

Each chapter in the book deals with a specific type of trim or built-in. You’ll start off however with project planning and this is an invaluable resource that will help any aspiring carpenter get their project laid out. You’ll be able to map out absolutely everything you’ll need to do and there are some great time saving tips in this section as well. The book even shows you how to draw your own designs and work from these plans, making it well worth the cover price.

Next, you’ll be moving on to the different types of materials that trim can be made of. This is an interesting discussion and you’ll learn a lot about the differences and which materials should be used for specific trim projects. If you’re entirely new to trim, this is a very helpful chapter. However, even seasoned pros can get something out of it.

Windows are also covered and this is a fantastic chapter if you are trying to restore an older home and want to be able to mimic the trim and keep that old feel even though you are using new materials. You’ll learn a lot about the process of designing, making and adding trim to your windows, both inside and out.

The chapters on baseboards and crown molding are also very useful and you’ll get some really great time saving tips that can be used on your next project. If you find this type of carpentry difficult, and many do, you’ll find out exactly what techniques you need to be using to pull off the job without a hitch. The section on wainscoting is incredibly useful if you are looking for a unique way to finish off a room and give its own unique character.

The next few sections deal exclusively with built-ins and you’ll learn not only which materials are best suited for certain projects, but also how to build a basic bookshelf that is much safer than a freestanding model as well as how to make your own cabinets. Overall, this is a book that is well worth the read.

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Review of Basements Step by Step Projects

November 15th, 2008 — Basement, Book Review 


Creative Homeowner’s series on home improvements includes this title and it is well worth the read. It’s a short read, coming in at around 80 pages, but don’t let the size fool you. Basements Step by Step Projects is packed with information and projects that will have you turning your basement into a paradise during your weekends. It’s intended audience is beginners or those with at least some DIY experience. It probably won’t have enough information for a professional, but for the right audience, this is an invaluable book.

It starts with how to plan out your basement changes in a logical manner. One of the best parts is that it includes information that a lot of us may not know about. For example, if you are planning on adding a bedroom to your basement, there is one safety feature that you absolutely have to have - a window or an outside door. Most people don’t even consider this, and it’s incredibly unsafe. You need to provide that occupant with a safety exit or you may even risk a fine from your housing authority.

It’s little tips like this that make the book well worth the time and purchase price. You’ll get step by step instructions on how to plan out your changes, and put them into action. Pretty much everything is covered, from how to figure out minimum square foot requirements for different types of rooms, safety features, water hazards and much more. Before you get started, read the chapter on existing basements so that you can find out how your basement was constructed. You’ll need to know this before going any further since it will affect the type of improvements that you can add.

Possibly the best feature of this book is that it includes projects that are truly useful for every day life. From building a sump pump to getting those stairs fixed, you’ll find countless tips that will make it a lot easier to safely and effectively modify your basement. Instructions on how to frame out doors and windows are included, which is vital if you plan to add living space to your basement, as mentioned above.

Too many how to books throw out information and projects and never really get into exactly how you’re supposed to do it, or the dangers that you need to keep in mind. This book definitely breaks that mold and provides absolutely everything you could ever need to get a project done. It’s like having a contractor right there with you, without having to pay the exorbitant fees.

The end of the book includes information on permits and more on electrical safety. This is very beneficial if you’re still trying to figure out what you want to do with your basement and you’re not sure what you need to do before taking those steps to put a plan into action. Overall, if you need to renovate your basement, this is the best book to help you get the job done.

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