Since 1973 over 10 million copies of READER'S DIGEST COMPLETE DO-IT-YOURSELF MANUAL have been sold. And now, the definitive ''on-the-job'' manual has just gotten bigger and better than ever. The editors of Reader's Digest and The Family Handyman magazine have joined forces to completely revise, update, rewrite, and redesign this home improvement classic. The new edition combines the best elements of the original manuals with The Family Handyman's rich informational and photographic archives, new illustrations and photographs, and the wisdom and experience of over 150 of the best experts in the field today. COMPLETE DO-IT-YOURSELF MANUAL is written in a style of text that addresses readers in a very accessible, conversational tone for easy, user-friendly assistance with every do-it-yourself task. All instructions and materials have been updated to address current codes (electrical, plumbing and building), and revised to indicate the very latest in materials, tools, and technology.Suitable for beginners and experts alike, the new innovative ideas and features include:Over 3,000 photos and illustrations including more than 1,500 new full-color photos and 100 new technical drawingsNew sidebars, such as Shop Smart, Handy Hints, Go Figure, and Safety First, providing readers with helpful informationTwo new chapters, Landscaping and Storage Projects that include material and cutting listsYellow-highlighter notes of caution or important points to rememberCross-references at the top of each pageMetrics are given with most measurements throughout the text and a complete metric conversion chart is included at the rear of the bookThe book's tried-and-true instructions provide do-it-yourself solutions to a ton of problems that could cost a fortune if you had to hire a professional. This manual is a ''must-have'' reference guide for every home-owning man or woman.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Man this was handy!:
I consider myself lucky to own this guide. The guide is straight forward and to the point, focusing not only on the steps to take, but also the precautions and pitfalls of projects. Even if you don't know a thing about home improvement this guide can walk you through many different situations step by step. It also features a good introduction to Do-It-Yourself(D-I-Y), the tools, the mentality, and the safety. The only problem I had with this guide, is that it made some projects look easier then they... more info
Do It Yourself!:
I refer to this book all the time. It actually helped me build my house and now it helps with maintenance and improvements. The instructions are clear, easy to understand, even for an inexperienced do-it-yourselfer.
extremely helpful:
using an earlier edition of this book, my husband and I built a three bedroom one bath addition to our home. I didn't know one end of a hammer from the other but the book was so clear in it's descriptions and illustrations that the project was completed beautifully. Just had to have the updated version for my use and to pass to the kids.
The Best Home Repair/ Improvement Book!:
I was turned on to Family Handyman Magazine years ago from a friend. I keep every issue. I didn't hesitate to get this book when I found out about it. Excellent pictures and information, as usual from The Family Handyman. This book is my favorite go to book for home repair/improvement.
