Construction and Home Repair Techniques Simply Explained

This practical and informative manual will enable both the serious builder and the casual do-it-yourselfer to tackle any home building task, from minor repairs to complete overhaul of an existing structure or the construction from scratch of a brand-new home. Created by the U.S. Navy to train military personnel in general techniques of home repair and construction, this is an especially clear and useful guide, featuring easy-to-follow instructions as well as hundreds of diagrams and illustrations.Detailed chapters cover the full range of construction basics: mixing, pouring, and use of concrete; selecting and laying bricks for masonry work; using and selecting woodworking tools; building frames for foundations, floors, walls, and roof; plastering; painting; and many more techniques chosen for the most efficient and permanent results. Concise introductory chapters explain how to prepare drawings and specifications and build scaffolding; final chapters cover such topics as field structures, heavy construction, and working with pre-fabricated units. Approaches and methods for small jobs, safety tips, mathematical diagrams and illustrations, techniques for jobs with special requirements, and abundant expert advice helps guarantee successful completion of every project.Whether you are building a patio, adding rooms, completely redesigning an existing house, or erecting a new building, this comprehensive guide to the building crafts will prove invaluable for every home construction job.