Building a home is a complicated, precise, and labor-intensive process. From drawing a design to selecting the site to laying the foundation, building the frame, installing the plumbing, wiring, HVAC, and everything in between, there are countless opportunities for something to go wrong. So how does a homeowner,  builder, or remodeler make sure that their project stays on track every step of the way? Having a copy of The Visual Handbook of Building and Remodeling, 4th Edition on hand is a great place to start.

This new edition has 48 pages of brand-new material―including new chapters on solar power and best-practice insulating―as well as the latest code information and updated sections on framing, sheathing, air sealing, and heating and cooling, enabling the reader to visualize exactly how to tackle any building project or problem. With 25 chapters, 688 pages, and a whopping 1,700 full-color illustrations and 300 quick-reference charts covering all aspects of home design and construction, this tome is the quintessential resource for home builders. As an added bonus, you can use it to hammer a nail if you leave your toolbelt at home.