 | By: Jack Sobon Roger Schroeder Binding: Paperback Publisher: Storey Books ISBN: 0882663658 ISBN-13: 9780882663654 Released: 02 Dec 1984 RRP: Average Rating:  |
For once, the seemingly-mandatory section on the trivial basics of the tools is thankfully short. Some knowledge is assumed, but not much. If you have a modicum of skill & this book, then you can build yourself a toolshed.
It's nice to see a framing book that doesn't stop at the frame. Options for cladding & roofing are described, both from a historical perspective & also some of the more modern & better insulated options. It assumes you're building an unheated shed though, & doesn't describe the issues of chimneys & habitable windows that would be needed for full-blown housebuilding.
The book has its failings. It isn't a historical review of the techniques, it's inaccurate in its description of pre-colonial European framing, & it entirely ignores Japan. It's a book for the D-I-Y framer, not the historian. There's a lot more to framing than just the American Square system, & if this were the only book you read, then you might get that impression.
One omission is that of detailed calculations for loading, deflections & ultimate strengths. The author's assumption is that we'll only ever want to build a shed, & can simply follow their designs. Some discussion of how to go beyond this would have been welcome, even if it's just enough to stop the floors bouncing.
This isn't the only book that a serious framer will need, but it's a very good start for the amateur.
On the down side I could have used more explanation on what joints to use, the best cutting sequence & a greater description of where not to use them.
Overalll though I recommend it.
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