"The all-in-one reference that lets you establish a standard for workmanship, quickly resolve disputes, avoid defect claims ... and much more!"--Back cover.

This book is a compilation of recognized building codes, as well as practical building standards that are consistent with quality construction projects. It illustrates how to measure present building practices, and how to recognize and apply practical building techniques for residential and light commercial construction activities.

How to succeed in the construction business step-by-step guidelines for estimating To be competitive, contractors and homebuilders need to know how to generate complete, accurate estimates for labor and material costs. This book guides readers through the entire estimating process, explaining in detail how to put together a reliable estimate that can be used not only for budgeting, but also for developing a schedule, managing a project, dealing with contingencies, and ultimately making a profit. Completely revised and updated to reflect the new CSI MasterFormat 2010TM system, the Second Edition of this practical guide describes estimating techniques for each building system and how to apply them according to the latest industry standards. Cost considerations and quantity takeoff and pricing are included for virtually every type of work found in residential and light commercial projects, from demolition, concrete, and masonry to windows and doors, siding, roofing, mechanical and electrical systems, finish work, and site construction. Complete with many new graphics and references to professional construction cost databases, the new edition provides experienced contractors and novices alike with essential information on: How to correctly interpret plans and specifications, reflecting updates to contract documents since the first edition Computer estimating techniques and new estimating software for performing quantity takeoff The best methods for conceptual estimating as well as the extremely useful topic of parametric estimating How to allocate the right amounts for profit and contingencies, and other hard-to-find professional guidance How a unit price estimate is built along with labor issues and budgeting for subcontractor work

A popular reference used daily by builders, contractors, architects, and owners, this guide is a unique collection of industry standards that define quality in construction. For contractors, subcontractors, owners, developers, architects, engineers, attorneys, and insurance personnel, it provides authoritative requirements and recommendations compiled from the nation's leading professional associations, industry publications, and building code organizations. New third edition is completely updated to the latest standards, codes, and trends. Coverage includes standards for concrete, masonry, framing, finish carpentry and cabinetry, insulation, roofing, windows and doors, drywall and ceramic tile, floor covering, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more. This one-stop reference is enhanced by helpful commentary from respected practitioners, including identification of items most frequently targeted for construction defect claims. FEATURES: This one-of-a-kind resource enables you to: Establish an acceptable quality of workmanship Resolve disputes and avoid litigation Train personnel in correct installation procedures Answer client questions and authority Easily find applicable building code information The nationwide team of editors includes leading contractors, engineers, architects and construction defect analysts. They provide practical installation tips, along with advice on how to avoid the most frequently cited defect claims.

The most comprehensive guide to material selection & installation It takes a wise choice of building materials and details to create durable, attractive, and affordable custom homes and remodeling projects. Best Practices Guide to Residential Construction provides up-to-date, field-tested recommendations that help professionals balance cost and performance when designing and building residential projects. Steven Bliss, former editorial director of The Journal of Light Construction and founding editor of Progressive Builder, draws on his extensive knowledge as a practicing builder, designer, and construction editor to help building professionals select the right materials for every job and install them with confidence. This one-stop resource covers the real-world challenges of material selection and installation so designers, contractors, and building owners can make informed decisions for all major building components. Useful to architects, designers, and specifiers--as well as contractors, builders, and developers--Best Practices Guide to Residential Construction features: * More than 200 photos and illustrations of critical residential construction details * Installation tips and cautions that help prevent costly product failures * Descriptions of the latest composites and synthetics that are changing the way we build * Easy-to-use charts for making quick product comparisons * An authoritative guide to indoor air quality and healthy house construction