Review: ✔ Lots of Good Ideas!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 23, 2014
This book is more extensive than I originally thought.  The author covers a LOT of different areas of the home. The author is apparently a general contractor, and he notes that he helps homeowners figure out efficient ways to improve/repair their home.  In other words, Mr Nealon really knows what he's talking about. I agree--the book confirms that the author is indeed experienced in MANY facets of home repair and maintenance.▲ Every part of the house is covered.  Each chapter covers a different area.  For example, there are chapters just on the kitchen, another on bathroom maintenance, another on home additions/upgrades, etc.  The author covers many things in great detail.  Where else can you find out how to apply caulking properly?▲ Perhaps the most valuable information is in a section called, "The Top 5 DIY Pitfalls."  Surprisingly, a big one is lack of understanding of the safety/legal/permitting process.  I would have never thought of that. Mr Nealon has a great section called, "How to Get a Building Permit." He lists about 20 different points to consider.  There's another 10 points to consider just when hiring a contractor.▲ There's an ad in the middle of the book for the owner's business. They are testimonials from happy customers.  The author is really smart to include testimonials.  It gives him credibility, and the pictures of the remodeling results are impressive.  The ad is not intrusive, and easily skipped if you're not interested.  If he gives his books away, Mr Nealon has to make a living somehow, doesn't he?At the end, the author includes a very nice checklist for the homeowner, so that important maintenance steps are not forgotten.✔Good information in lots of different areas. I trust this man's competence. Recommend!♫ A Review by Chris Lawson