Customer Reviews

Building Code Basics Residential Based on the 2006 International Residential Code

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The book is well written, good illustrations, but lacking in the detail needed by a builder or contractor. Excellent though for a homeowner wanting to oversee a project as it provides sufficient information to know what should be done even if you need to depend upon the contractor for the how part.

Definitely a big step up from the how to books on construction that are superficial and may have lots of pretty pictures but little information of substance. I used to rely on licensed contractors to know the codes and do the work properly. While this may still work with specific trades like electrical, when you are dealing with a general contractor this is most definitely not the case and the burden falls on the home owner.

What is good is that the USA over the past decade has started to integrate its codes with the international codes and state and local agencies have been adopting the national code (though there may be a delay in updates of 2-3 years by the locals). The national code is usually more stringent than local codes so it is in general a very good starting point.

This would be a great e-book as you do need to still dig around to find state and local variations and having Web links would be valuable and a big time saver.

While not a substitute for the building code, this book was sufficient for basic handiman projects, better than the books at home depot.

A very readable guide to the Building Codes for homeowners and professionals.
Covers all aspects of construction and has excellent illustrations.