Some Favorite Construction Books

People are always asking me what books I’d recommend to learn about construction, or use as a reference. While nothing beats being out in the field, here are 5 of my favorites that have been very helpful to me:

1. “Builder’s Guide” series, by Joe Lstiburek

An absolute classic, and the first book my boss gave me when I was moved up to PM at a general contracting office. There is a guide available for each region [cold, hot/humid, dry, etc], and they are full of easy-to-understand diagrams, explanations, and construction details focused on quality building techniques and smart climate mediation strategies. It explains complicated concepts like thermodynanics and vapor management with clear, common language…and did I mention there are lots of pictures? Lstiburek is a legend in building science circles, and for good reason!