So you want to be a builder? You should read these books about Construction

Sometimes, I just want to escape from society. On the weekends, I love to get outside and hike my way around the local countryside.

I’ve been thinking a lot about building my own property, or at least a small place to go to on weekends. Obviously, this is quite a large challenge. I’ve recently been looking for books which might help me reach that goal and teach me something about construction.

Below are some of the best books that I’ve found on the topic so far:

Fundamentals of Building Construction: Materials and Methods by Joseph Iano

With over 30 different editions to date, this textbook is widely regarded as essential for construction engineers across the globe. The ‘Fundamentals of Building Construction’ continues to be used by thousands of students in schools of architecture, engineering, and construction technology every year.

Iano takes the reader on a long journey which starts with the types of nails used in basic construction tasks and ends with an understanding of the components of buildings and how they are constructed. Reading this book gives the reader the ability to stop at any site and have a fair idea of what exactly everybody on site is doing and what they have left to do.

Building Construction Illustrated by Francis D.K. Ching

This classic visual guide to the basics of building construction has recently been updated to contain the most up-to-date information. Building Construction Illustrated has provided outstanding introductions to the principles of building construction for students over the past 3 decades and beyond.

There are some who say this book has too much of a US-bias, but I think that this is a fairly decent read for anybody in the world if they want a more theoretical understanding of construction rather than just practical. you may want to be wary however that the measurements and units used in this book can be misleading.

Graphic Guide to Frame Construction: Details for Builders and Designers (For Pros by Pros) by Rob Thallon

Considered the standard reference in its field, this “Graphic Guide to Frame Construction” is the most well respected visual guide to building with wood. This is an invaluable reference for experienced designers and builders. Inside is a complete visual handbook for architects, builders, students, and anybody interested in wood-frame construction.

Cabin Porn: Inspiration for Your Quiet Place Somewhere by Zachery Klein

Not a book about construction per sé, but, Klein’s ‘Cabin Porn’ is a chunky coffee table read which you can easily pick up and flick through when the mood grabs you. This book delves into the creation of wood cabins and guides you on how you might build your own. You get to experience your own mini-escape each time you flick through the pages.

The book is filled to the brim with photos. These photos are absolutely breathtaking and will no doubt fuel your wanderlust and make you want to take in the beautiful surroundings in your own cabin someday. The stories left me wanting to meet the amazing people who build these cabins and grab a beer with them.

The one downside is that this book is a little light on words, I wish there had been more tales from the author and the contributors about their journeys.

My thanks go to J3 Building Solutions, one of the best construction companies in Newcastle. I spoke to a few members of the team at J3 during my research on this blog, they gave me some great book suggestions to consider for my learning. If you’re looking for trustworthy commercial builders Newcastle, You can’t go wrong with J3 Building Solutions.