Builder's Guide to Cosmetic Remodeling (Builder's Guide) [Paperback]

Chase M. Powers (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 7, 1997

Contractors and remodelers can broaden their client bases and boost profits when they apply this guide's proven, cost-effective ideas and methods for the cosmetic remodeling of any type of residence. It features all the latest and most popular finishing and cosmetic techniques, including advice on how professionals can cash in on them.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Bid-winning ideas for home remodeling without costly structural changes. Cost-conscious homeowners are demanding more bang for the buck on their remodeling projects. Here's a book for contractors and home remodelers that can well mean the difference between winning and losing the bids on these jobs. Builder's Guide to Cosmetic Remodeling is packed with creative, cost-effective ideas that can make even older homes look like a million bucks, without expensive structual changes. It covers everything from disguising an ugly foundation to giving a new look to the roof line-and every room in between! You'll find: Information on new and most-requested finishing and cosmetic techniques-and how you can cash in on them. More than 150 illustrations you can use to actually close the sale!; Refacing and refinishing techniques that provide an affordable alternative to high-cost replacement; Nuts-and-bolts information on all aspects of general remodeling, and a host of creative ideas you can incorporate on your next job; Case histories from the author's own experience-some amusing, some illustrating the real risks that contractors need to avoid; A room-by-room analysis of the options open to you, plus basics like HVAC modifications and electrical options. For any contractor or home remodeler looking to expand business, or any do-it-yourselfer looking for affordable alternatives, the Builder's Guide to Cosmetic Remodeling is a must-have resource.

About the Author

McGraw-Hill authors represent the leading experts in their fields and are dedicated to improving the lives, careers, and interests of readers worldwide --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Paperback: 348 pages
• Publisher: McGraw-Hill (April 7, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0070507171
• ISBN-13: 978-0070507173
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 2.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,052,172 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Not impressed, January 23, 2008

By 

C. Palmer (Hedgesville, WV USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Builder's Guide to Cosmetic Remodeling (Builder's Guide) (Paperback)

It looks like something that was photo copied back in the 1970's on a machine that should have been retired. Very poor quality. I purchased a used book. I would have been very upset had I paid the new price of $24.95 for it.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars could be helpful, November 11, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Builder's Guide to Cosmetic Remodeling (Builder's Guide) (Paperback)

I bought this book for my husband to read since he is doing the remodeling and renovating of our 100+ year old home. He didn't look at it, and I ended up reading it. The book is well written, and I learned a lot from it. Unfortunately I am not a contractor, so I don't get any use from the information at all. The book is meant for general building contractors who are knew to the business, or maybe want some fresh ideas on how to win a job contract. If that sounds like you, I think you may find this book useful.

1.0 out of 5 stars Unless you have NO construction experience, don't bother, March 24, 2008

By 

A. John Gironda III (No Virginia, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Builder's Guide to Cosmetic Remodeling (Hardcover)

It would almost seem like the title was trying to help sell the book as having something it didn't: insight to what contractors would benefit knowing in terms of cosmetic aspects of construction. In my opinion, good contractors have knowledge waaaaaay past this book. Chapter on basements starts out by saying they could spend several chapters on the topic and not do it justice. So, they stick to basics. I'd say, why bother if you can't cover things well? They say vinyl flooring and carpet are good choices, with carpet less so if there's a water problem in the basement. Duh! So goes the entire book. Yes, most of us know that floors, walls, and ceilings need finishing, and there are many types available. You're better off going to Lowe's or even Home Depot and getting advice from their interior finish experts.

As example of how the book could have been improved, the issue of water migration through slabs is overlooked by many contractors. This is a point to make. Also, they could have conveyed methods on how to test for moisture migrating up through a slab, in addition to clear cases of water intrusion. As a water intrusion expert, every (every) floor in So Cal I evaluated due to water damage coming up through the slab, didn't have an adequate vapor/water barrier. Sure, some adhesives are rated to serve as vapor barriers as well. There are so many variables involved in a successful application, IMO, contractor-to-contractor, this is one area I'd recommend belt-and-suspender approaches. Now, that is good info for a contrator about cosmetic renovation. Again, in my opinion.