Review: A goldmine of information for the remodeling novice
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 11 16, 2012
There are tons of books with detailed guides for home remodeling - either DIY or with a contractor, plus hundreds of catalogs of appliances, fixtures, and other appurtenances. This is not one of those books. "Home Remodeling - What You Don't Know and How It Really Works" is about the process of remodeling. It's intended for a novice with little or no experience in remodeling who wants to understand how to go about it. The authors state: "Entering this world [remodeling] unprepared can cause confusion, doubt, worry, and even fear." With all the pitfalls that await a remodeling rookie, I don't doubt that.The book includes information about the different types of contractors and how to select one; obtaining building permits and any other permits or licenses needed; developing the remodeling plans; working within a budget; contracts, insurance, change orders, and lien releases; and other information necessary to make the remodeling project succeed and not leave a bad taste in your mouth.Since kitchens and bathrooms are the most common interior remodeling projects, the book includes chapters on Kitchen Remodeling and Bathroom Remodeling, with some helpful information about the particular decisions that must be made for those rooms.I've never personally done any home remodeling projects that involved more than paint or wallpaper, or building some bookshelves next to the fireplace, but if we ever do a more involved remodeling project, I will have a lot more confidence in undertaking such a project after reading this book. It was a goldmine of useful information to help readers understand how a home remodeling project really works, explaining what happens during each stage of the project, what you need to be concerned with, where the possible pitfalls are, how you need to prepare yourself financially and emotionally, and how you can begin the project as well prepared as possible.I recommend this book for anyone who's thinking about a home remodeling project.