One of the first really thorough instruction manuals on how to construct residences using steel framing instead of wood, and written by Tim Waite of the NAHB. Covers how to design the structure to accommodate plumbing, wiring and HVAC, how to cut, assemble and secure the steel, how to deal with second-story construction, roof framing using trusses and conventional construction, specialty framing like curved walls and radius windows, how to attach drywall and exterior finishes, how to effectively install insulation, and how to deal with inspectors and the homebuyer.

This book provides in-depth coverage of steel framing, discussing the advantages and thoroughly explaining the techniques. Valuable features include reference charts that outline standards and materials costs, information on the newest materials and tools, and the latest details on the code-exceeding aspects of steel framing.

If you dream of living in a tiny house, or creating a getaway in the backwoods or your backyard, you’ll love this gorgeous collection of creative and inspiring ideas for tiny houses, cabins, forts, studios, and other microshelters. Created by a wide array of builders and designers around the United States and beyond, these 59 unique and innovative structures show you the limits of what is possible. Each is displayed in full-color photographs accompanied by commentary by the author. In addition, Diedricksen includes six sets of building plans by leading designers to help you get started on a microshelter of your own. You’ll also find guidelines on building with recycled and salvaged materials, plus techniques for making your small space comfortable and easy to inhabit.

* Reflects recent changes in the model building codes and in the MBMA (Metal Building Manual Association) manual * New review questions after each chapter * Revised data on insulation necessary to meet the new energy codes * New material on renovations of primary frames, secondary members, roofing, and walls

Since 1970, the architect Barton Myers has constructed three custom-designed steel residences in addition to developing a flexible prototype for standardised, mass-produced housing. Each project represents a unique approach to a radically different set o

The leading guide to professional home construction—now updated and revised! Fundamentals of Residential Construction, Third Edition features the most up-to-date explanations of today's residential construction systems. From foundation to roof and exterior finishes to interior details, this new edition thoroughly addresses the latest developments in materials and methods of house construction, including energy efficiency, framing, and roofing. Abundantly illustrated with more than 1,250 drawings and photographs, including new photorealistic illustrations that bring the text to life, this Third Edition provides authoritative coverage on wood light-frame construction, industrialized systems of construction, insulating concrete forms, light-gauge steel frame, panelized construction, and a new chapter on multifamily construction. Topics covered include: Plumbing Building codes Heating and cooling Financing Wiring Roofing Thermal insulation Environmental concerns Foundations Finish sitework Rough sitework Wood and light-gauge steel framing Engineered materials Exterior and interior finishes Organized in a logical, easy-to-follow format, Fundamentals of Residential Construction, Third Edition is the one-stop source for building professionals to gain a working knowledge of codes, management procedures, material, and all home building concerns.

Leads readers step-by-step through the house framing process. 788 photographs and illustrations.

In this fascinating collection of postings from his popular “Musings of an Energy Nerd” blog, Green Building Advisor's Martin Holladay cuts through the hype and myths about energy efficiency, sustainability, and green building to present the very best ways to make your home more energy efficient. Martin Holladay has been making weekly postings to his “Musings of an Energy Nerd” blog on Green Building Advisor since January 2009. Along the way, he has gathered a devoted following of “energy nerds” who await his weekly musings with rapt anticipation. For the first time, the 50 most popular postings have been assembled in book form to give homeowners a great opportunity to live a more energy-efficient life in their homes. The book begins with an overview of energy priorities, and a discussion of what we mean by terms likegreen and sustainable. Martin presents several options for energy upgrades for an existing house (from replacing windows to adding superinsulation) before looking at ways to improve the energy efficiency of a new house. Separate chapters follow on HVAC, domestic hot water, appliances, and renewable energy, before the book wraps up with an eye-opening chapter on useless products, scams, and myths (including Martin's list of “Stupid Energy-Saving Tips”).