Popular Mechanics Illustrated Guide to Basic Home Repairs

Library Journal

While these books both serve as introductions to general home improvements and upkeep, their differences far exceed their similarities. The Home Answer Book is a hands-on manual covering about 50 or so home repair projects. Many of the jobs are simple in nature and typical of basic how-to guides (e.g., unclogging drains, fixing lamps, replacing broken windows, etc.). Other projects, such as replacing water heaters, maintaining chainsaws, or fixing telephones are slightly more involved or unusual. The average homeowner will appreciate the degree of detail in the written procedures as well as the labeling of each job according to level of difficulty, time requirement, and cost of materials. Madorma's book is designed more for the homeowner who simply wants to know what makes a house (and its component parts) work. The first part of the book seeks to explain the strengths, weaknesses, and overall improvement potential of a home. The remainder and bulk of the book details how to assess various parts of the house including the mechanical systems, interior floor and wall treatments, roofing and siding, energy conservation measures, landscaping, and more. What sets Madorma's book apart is its in-depth review of homeowner options, especially when it comes to brand-name products and recent innovations. This is a valuable home improvement and remodeling pre-planning guide. Both titles are worthy of consideration by public libraries.-- Bill Demo, Tompkins Cortland Community Coll., Dryden, N.Y.