Detailed instructions, accompanied by hundreds of step-by-step illustrations, take readers through common repairs and maintenance tasks around the house, including repairing holes in drywall, unclogging drains, replacing light fixtures, repairing cracked tiles, screening gutters, and more. Original. 12,000 first printing.

You're no idiot, of course. You can stick a bucket underneath a dripping ceiling with breathtaking precision and tape cardboard over a broken window like you were born to the craft. But when it comes to real home repair challenges, your handiwork begins and ends with the call you make to your carpenter or plumber. Don't pack up your toolbox yet! The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Home Repair, Second Edition is your total guide to diagnosing and fixing the most basic home-repair problems yourself. In this completely revised and updated Complete Idiot's Guide, you get: Simple ways to do interior and exterior jobs, from choosing tools to avoiding safety hazards All new information on weatherproofing, roofing, siding, and masonry Clear instructions on what to do when electrical, heating, and plumbing systems go haywire

Extremely accessible, with over 300 photos and illustrations, this guide is geared for the true home improvement beginner, with a visual glossary included.

How many readers does it take to change a light bulb? Only one . . . if he or she is armed with this book! Rather than focus on the big projects that most homeowners would wisely leave to professionals, it concentrates on the common repairs that everyone encounters and anyone can do—with the right instruction—including repairing holes and dents in drywall; fixing popped nails in walls; checking and replacing fuses; unclogging drains; replacing light fixtures; fixing squeaky floors; repairing cracked tile and damaged carpet; replacing screens; screening gutters; and much more. • Contains 250 to 300 step–by–step illustrations

Put the brakes on costly car bills. The Complete Idiots Guide to Auto Repair Illustratedcovers everything readers need to know about their automobiles, from the tires up. Tailor-made for true novices, it shows them how to make some of the most basic repairs themselves nd teaches them enough to feel confident that theyll never be taken for a ride by a mechanic again. More than 300 easy-to-understand illustrations and a 50-page self-diagnosis guide organized for quick identification of what s wrong New- and used-car warranty information Step-by-step illustrated instructions on how to conduct routine maintenance An overview of how each system steering and suspension, cooling, electrical works

Describes the parts of a bicycle and how they work, basic maintenance procedures, the proper tools to use, and how to handle roadside emergencies and repairs.

Creating a new home-or rebuilding a purchased one-requires architectural expertise, not only for aesthetic design purposes but also to account for structural safety, feasibility of plan, compliance with local laws and codes, and above all, to make a new house feel like home-the home you've always wanted. However, architects can be very costly- but only if you use them. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Designing Your Own Hometeaches readers to do all or most of an architect's work themselves, step-by-step, with inspirational ideas; clear, concise information; practice exercises; and professional secrets-all explained in a warm, inviting, friendly voice. It explains everything readers need to know to design the home they've always wanted while making it practical, affordable, and secure.

Offers information and advice on how to install and repair home electrical wiring, including when and how to deal with professionals, and the specific requirements of different rooms.

Home sweet home improvements—with more than 300 photos and illustrations. This definitive guide takes readers step-by-step through the most popular improvements around the house—from installing wood, laminate, and ceramic tile flooring to resurfacing countertops and framing a new interior wall. With photos and illustrations and easy-to-understand how-to instructions, readers will be able to make repairs and improvements themselves without having to call expensive contractors. • Provides instructions for the most common projects such as installing drywall, upgrading windows and doors, installing flooring, and more • Includes a visual glossary with 300-400 how-to photos and illustrations • For the true beginner—instruction is presented in a non-intimidating, visually accessible format