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One
of the most important decisions facing a property owner is the
renovation of old structures and buildings. Perhaps no decision is
more important than the one of home remodeling. There is a wealth
of information available on remodeling everything from a single
room to an entire house. Adding to this body of literature is the
newest book from author and television personality Bob Vila. Vila
and co-author Hugh Howard have written "Bob Vila’s Complete
Guide To Remodeling Your Home," a fresh look at the home
renovation process. Vila takes the reader through the remodeling
process step bystep, including the difficult decision to
do-it-yourself or work with a contractor. The layout of the book
presents a unique approach to tackling a home improvement project.
It is divided into three general categories with three specific
chapters in each category.
In
Part One, "Looking At Your House," Vila explains how to
examine your house to determine what work should be performed. He
also has an informative chapter on a problem that is sometimes
baffling to the novice renovator: how to determine the
architectural style of your home and the impact of that style on
the renovation project. A concluding chapter helps the reader
better understand the "design-speak" of architects and
designers.
In
Part Two, "Making Plans," Vila discusses the design
process and the best methods for carefully planning your project.
Especially important is the idea of "working to put your
dream on paper," developing a plan that you can use in your
discussions with contractors and builders. This plan allows the
homeowner to work out the details of the project, including
estimated costs, materials needed, and other budgets and expenses.
In
Part Three, "Making Changes," Vila describes the actual
work involved in the remodeling process. "Building The
Box" addresses such concerns as permits, excavation,
foundation, and framing. Other projects in this section include
advice on wiring, plumbing, and insulation. A concluding chapter
on "Finishing The Job" offers guidance on the final
stages of the remodeling process: mechanical installations and
finishing the surfaces.
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This
book is beautifully illustrated throughout and includes many color
and black and white photographs. Line drawings accompany the text
to support the different topics of discussion and make the
projects easier to visualize. There is an easy to use index and a
glossary, which is especially helpful for the beginner who does
not understand all of the terminology of the remodeling process.
This can come in handy when discussing a renovation project with a
contractor or architect.
Bob
Vila is originally known as the host of the PBS series "This
Old House." Since that time he has written numerous books on
home building and renovation and currently produces the television
series "Bob Vila’s Home Again." Vila has a writing
style that is direct and to the point. In reading his books or
watching him on television it is obvious that he is passionate
about the renovation process. Part of this passion lies in his
desire to help people through a difficult process and ensure that
the job is done properly. His direct approach is exactly what the
reader needs when considering a remodeling project.
This
book is recommended for anyone who is considering home remodeling
as a do-it-yourself project or through the services of a
contractor.
For
more information, visit the library at 725 Pekin St. or call
732-8878.
[Richard
Sumrall, Lincoln Public Library District]
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