Save 30% on home construction! Whether you want to take on all the responsibility of contracting your home or simply want to intelligently communicate with your homebuilder, The Complete Guide to Contracting Your Home can help you save 30% or more on the cost of home construction by teaching you the ins and outs of managing your construction project. Learn how to get your project off to a solid start. Get financial and legal details in language you can understand. Learn what to consider when selecting a lot and how to deal with suppliers, labor and subcontractors. Gain understanding of building codes and inspections so you can manage with authority, confidence, and efficiency. This extensive guide walks you through each phase of construction including preconstruction, foundations, framing, roofing, plumbing, electrical, masonry, siding, insulation, drywall, trim, painting, cabinetry, countertops, flooring, tile and landscaping. Completely revised and updated, this edition includes a new section on sustainable building as well as the most comprehensive building resources section ever compiled. You'll find schedules, order forms, control logs, contracts and checklists to help keep your project on track. Read more

Successful Construction Project Management – The Practical Guide, provides useful tips to managing a construction project. It’s aimed at construction professionals as well as those studying construction project management. Managing a construction project isn’t an easy job and requires a large skill set. Some of these skills are learned by attending courses and colleges (which are often more theoretical than practical). However, others are only learned by experience, and often the hard way – learning from mistakes. This book bridges the gap between the theoretical and practical and includes chapters on planning the project, starting it, scheduling, running the project, completing it, people, materials, equipment, quality, safety, subcontractors, contractual and financial. These chapters are broken into multiple sections providing a step-by-step guide to successfully managing a construction project, and, including what-not-to-do to avoid costly mistakes. Key features of the book are it:•is written for construction contractors by a contractor•is written in an easy to read, friendly style, and avoids being too ‘textbook’ in nature•has numerous practical examples of situations the author has seen and experienced over twenty-eight years in construction•includes many topics essential to successfully managing projects which aren’t included in most other project management books (such as; teamwork, delegation, communication, time management and preparing for meetings)•has the information clearly set out and easily available so the book can be used as a continuing reference•is not specific to a particular country or field of construction•includes a large amount of valuable, useful and relevant information dealing with practical everyday issues of managing a project•has a summary of the salient points at the end of each chapterManaging a construction project requires Project Managers with an understanding of construction processes, able to develop schedules, procure materials and equipment, aware of safety, environmental and labour legislation, capable of working with different people including the public, their workers, the client and designers, and able to manage subcontractors. They need to develop an appropriate construction methodology which uses the available personnel and equipment efficiently, enabling the project to be built in the shortest possible time, taking into account the client’s requirements and the project’s location and restraints. In addition, they must ensure the project is carried out safely and meets the required quality standards and complies with all permits, regulations and registrations. They must manage contractual issues with the client in a manner which doesn’t jeopardise their company, ensuring the project is financially successful, while always maintaining good client relations. The project must be successfully completed on-time and closed-out correctly. The book discusses all of this, and more, in detail and includes many examples which provide relevance to the subject matter.By reading and using this book Project Managers will avoid some of the many problems encountered everyday on construction projects. The book should prove to be an excellent reference which can continually be referred to so that Project Managers don’t forget important steps in the construction management process.The contents should be easily understood by people in the construction industry and those studying construction. A glossary of terms is included since terminologies vary between countries and even companies. Read more

Modular homes are the perfect solution if you want to build a high-quality, customized home without undue expense or hassle. In this informative guide, Andrew Gianino helps you make the best choices throughout the modular building process, with suggestions for everything from choosing the right dealer and contractor to setting the specs, price, and schedule. Whether you’re looking for a cozy Victorian or want to add a personal touch to a wide ranch, there’s a modular home that will fit your tastes, lifestyle, and budget. Read more

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. Read more

Construction Superintendents: Essential Skills for the Next Generation is the first college-level textbook designed to prepare you to take on a site supervisor role on a complex jobsite. The book covers the responsibilities of superintendents in relation to the jobsite project management team, the project owners, designers, and municipal services. The book outlines the development of the superintendent and his or her role and responsibilities in twenty-first century construction projects. Using examples and case studies of cutting-edge jobsite practices from the use of computer applications to leadership and capital development, this book lays out all the functions of a modern site superintendent in an easy-to-understand format. The book includes:coverage of the full spectrum of tasks and skills required from the pre-construction phase, through start-up, operation and close-out, plus advanced topics for those serious about leading the field real-world case studies, forms, and documentation stored on a companion websitechapter summaries, review questions, and exercises to aid both teaching and learning.This book fills in the long-standing need for an academic textbook designed as an applied instructional resource suitable for university and college students enrolled in construction management and construction engineering programmes. Read more

You don’t need to depend on (or pay) a general contractor to manage your construction project. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, you can manage the job yourself. Carl Heldmann outlines how to purchase your own land, set a reasonable budget and schedule, describe your needs and vision to an architect, and hire subcontractors to do the actual building. Cut out the middleman and save as much as 25 percent on your beautiful new home! Read more

Is your client causing you additional costs? Learn how to effectively handle construction project variation claims in this easy to read book with no legal jargon. Essential reading for every successful construction project manager. Have you had a legitimate construction variation claim rejected? In the course of most construction projects delays, variations and additional work occur, which give rise to variation claims. These variation claims can be between the owner or client and the contractor, or between the contractor and their subcontractors. Some construction project managers aren’t aware of what they are entitled to claim. Often contractors aren’t granted all the time, or money, that they are entitled to, and frequently many variation claims end in lengthy and expensive disputes where both parties end as losers. I’ve been involved with over 120 construction projects and only a few haven’t increased in value – with some almost doubling. Indeed, some construction variation claims have been worth millions of dollars. Many of my projects also suffered delays and I claimed extension of time – sometimes for several months. Fortunately, in nearly every case, these variation claims were resolved and approved amicably. In most cases we received close to the full value claimed or were granted the entire extension of time requested. Furthermore, mostly we remained on good terms with our client and went on to construct several more projects for them. This book uses these real-world examples to help with your construction variation, delay and disruption claims. It’s important that contractors present their construction variation claims timeously and in a fashion that’s hard to refute. In this book I look at reasons for lodging a construction variation claims, delay claims and disruption claims, the supporting documentation required to substantiate the claim, what to include in the claim, negotiating the claim, and finally avoiding variation claims. Regrettably many construction project managers don’t understand their contractual rights and obligations. This easy to read book demystifies the construction project variation claims process, ensuring contractors are granted the extension of time and costs they’re entitled to. Also included are sections on avoiding variation claims from clients and subcontractors. Know your rights and obligations in terms of the project contract. Make sure that you submit winning construction variation claims. Ensure you claim all the time and costs due to you. Learn how to refute variation claims lodged against you. Read more

Master the Art of Construction Project Management & Estimating: Build Your Career with Proven Strategies for Success in 2025 and Beyond! Are you ready to step confidently into the construction industry but feel overwhelmed by where to start?Struggling to understand the complexities of estimating and managing construction projects?Dreaming of a rewarding career in construction but need a roadmap to guide you? Introducing "Construction Project Management & Estimating for Beginners" – your ultimate guide to launching and excelling in the world of construction. Whether you're a beginner, a recent graduate, or a small business owner, this comprehensive 2-in-1 guide provides expert insights, actionable strategies, and step-by-step instructions to help you succeed. Inside this complete guide, you'll discover:✅ The must-know fundamentals of construction estimating and project management✅ Step-by-step workflows to create accurate estimates and execute successful projects✅ How to prepare competitive bids and win contracts with confidence✅ Tips for managing resources, budgets, and schedules effectively✅ The latest tools and technologies transforming the construction industry✅ How to identify and mitigate risks to avoid costly mistakes✅ Communication and leadership techniques to manage teams and clients seamlessly✅ Real-world examples and practical insights from industry professionals✅ And much more! What’s in it for you?➡️ Career Confidence: Gain the skills and knowledge to stand out in the competitive construction industry➡️ Efficient Workflows: Learn how to streamline processes for estimating and project execution➡️ Financial Success: Discover how to manage budgets, control costs, and maximize profitability➡️ Cutting-Edge Expertise: Stay ahead with insights into the latest construction technologies and trends Benefits of reading this guide:➡️ Comprehensive Coverage: Master both estimating and project management in one complete resource➡️ Step-by-Step Blueprint: Easy-to-follow advice designed for beginners and aspiring professionals➡️ Practical Tools and Strategies: Apply proven techniques immediately to improve your work and confidence➡️ Expert Mentorship: Learn from the experiences of seasoned construction professionals➡️ Real-Life Examples: Gain insights from case studies and success stories to inspire your journey Don’t let confusion or inexperience hold you back!With the right guidance, you can master the skills needed to thrive in construction project management and estimating. Scroll up, get your copy, and start building your successful construction career today! Read more

Dive into the dynamic world of construction project management with the 2024 Student Edition of "Construction Project Management 101: For Beginners & New Graduates." The essential guide to navigating the intricacies of this highly lucrative and fast-paced field is finally here!Unlock the secrets of success as a new construction project manager, gaining insights into the daily duties that shape the industry. Authored by vocational career expert and 26-year construction veteran P.D. Mason, in collaboration with the Construction Education Alliance, this edition is tailored to enhance the futures of the next generation of construction project managers.What sets this book apart? It's not just a manual; it's your job site companion. From understanding the expectations placed on construction project managers to gaining insider perspectives on various construction management sectors, this book is your ticket to a successful career launch.Safety is paramount, and we guide you through navigating OSHA standards. We explain the intricacies of the Critical Path Method (CPM), resource leveling, and time/cost relationships. You'll gain invaluable information about master project budgeting and cost control strategies and insights into construction contracts and risk management.Learn about distinct differences of means and methods in construction as we explore three different projects, offering a practical understanding of the field. Look into the technological future of the construction industry, equipping you with the knowledge needed in today's digital landscape.We've also compiled over 250 of the most common construction terms and definitions to enhance your knowledge!It's more than a book; it's a comprehensive toolkit for success.This 2024 Student Edition readies you to enter the construction field with a working knowledge of best practices in construction. Let "Construction Project Management 101" be your guidebook to success in the fast-paced construction project management world.Grab this book today and build a foundation for a rewarding, fast-paced construction project management career!Add this book to your library and buy now! Read more

The construction industry faces major headwinds—from fluctuating markets and attracting enough talent to unreasonably tight margins, and so much more. Yet some elite contractors consistently achieve double or triple the profits through these challenges.What's the key to their success?After advising hundreds of contractors for fifteen years, author Chad Prinkey knows it comes down to having the right systems and culture in place across your business. In his book Well Built, Prinkey lays out the roadmap for contractors to make meaningful upgrades in how they operate, strategize, manage teams, win new business, and deliver for customers. You'll learn the step-by-step process contractors can use to join the top 2% and gain durable competitive advantages that increase profits for the long haul.Real transformation doesn't happen overnight—but with Prinkey's straightforward methodology, construction executives finally have a clear path to reach the top tier of industry performers. Read more

Do you work in construction? Do you see the need for improvement? Do you want an easy-to-understand guide towards becoming Lean? This book is for you. You will have access to over 200 videos on the topic of Lean and Lean in construction. As a coach you can use these videos to develop yourself, and then others, towards being Lean. George Trachilis and Perry Thompson suggest that this is a starter kit for those companies wanting to be Lean Ready. The book, the online course (found at https://Lean101.ca/Lean) and the website https://LeanConstructionLeaders.com/ round out the offering of these materials.This book contains over 600 years of experience by 24 contributors. Contributors include Jeff Liker, the best-selling author of the Toyota Way, Romano Nickerson, Principal of Boulder Associates, an architect who coached many companies towards being lean, Paul Akers, author of 2second Lean, Greg Howell - co-inventor of the Last Planner System® and co-founder of The Lean Construction Institute, and Ritsuo Shingo, the son of Shigeo Shingo, Shigeo introduced Lean to North America. The authors have over sixty years of Lean and construction experience. Finally, George Trachilis the Lean guru and professional engineer, engaged more than 300 companies on their Lean journey since 1994.Every solution starts with a problem. Owners and general contractors are starting projects with an expectation that trade partners engage on a project with a Lean mindset. Use of industry lean tools such as the Last Planner System® (LPS), eight wastes (MUDA), and the 5S System for Workplace Organization(5S) have been difficult to implement to say the least. Currently trade partners are not prepared and take six months to be Lean ready.This book emphasizes the importance of reliable handoffs between each trade partner and a unified understanding of the impact and effects each trade has on the entire schedule. It can be used as a team project guide to get projects started right out of the gate. We envision that GCs would issue the book to the project team so that they could get started before coming to the first meeting. Team members would do their homework and develop that common language as a team. What’s a pull plan? What’s a takt plan? Unanswered questions like these cost teams what seems to be countless hours and resources to improve planning and creating a collaboratively planned schedule founded on reliable commitments to each other. As we move away from command and control to a more open dialog of needs and countermeasures to create flow and smooth handoffs between trade partners.These materials should be used at the time of formation for every project. Teams are formed that look like a “temporary” organization for the length of a project. This is a workbook and a Lean program that should be started with each project. Collaboration is not enough. Tips and tricks by each of our video content contributors solidifies this learning. This is an excellent solution for trade contractors looking to be Lean. Access to all these materials is complete and a great start for any organization. Read more

Estimating Building CostsFew aspects of a construction project are more fundamental than the cost estimate, which can mean the difference between a professionally executed project and a financial and legal disaster. Properly handled, a construction cost estimate can protect both the contractor and the client from losing money on a project. The estimate is the first step toward a successful project. For contractors, therefore, the knowledge required to construct an accurate price estimate is critical. Estimating Building Costs for the Residential and Light Commercial Construction Professional provides this knowledge in a thorough and comprehensive guide. It takes readers step-by-step through the process of constructing a cost estimate, and provides guidance for incorporating cost estimates into budgeting, scheduling, project management, and more. The result is a fundamental guide to this critical aspect of the construction industry. Readers of the third edition of Estimating Building Costs for the Residential and Light Commercial Construction Professional will also find: Fully updated text to reflect the new CSI MASTERFORMAT™ 2020Analysis of cost considerations, quantity takeoff, pricing, and moreStep-by-step guidance for developing a comprehensive cost estimateAll-new sections covering scope of work, wage scales in the US, and a project overhead checklistConsiderations for adding profit and contingencies to an estimateEstimating Building Costs for the Residential and Light Commercial Construction Professional is an essential resource for contractors in residential and light commercial construction, as well as students studying construction management and construction estimating. Read more

An important guide to the quantification of contract claims in the construction industry, updated third editionThe substantially expanded third edition of Evaluating Contract Claims puts the spotlight on the quantification of claims in the construction industry after liability has been established, including by reference to the terms of several standard forms of contract in common use. The authors clearly demonstrate the potential alternative approaches to quantification, the processes, principles and standard of analysis required to produce acceptable claims for additional payment. The third edition covers a number of heads claims not considered in previous editions and offers an important guide for those working with building or engineering contracts.Evaluating Contract Claims explains in detail how the base from which evaluation of additional payments may be established, the effect of changes on the programme of work and the sources of information for evaluation of additional payments. The book also contains information for evaluating the direct consequences of change in terms of the impact on unit rates, and evaluating of the time consequences of change in terms of prolongation, disruption, acceleration and more. This important book:Concentrates on the quantification of contract claims after liability has been establishedOffers a guide that is appropriate for any form of contractConsiders the potential alternative approaches to quantification of different heads of claimContains the principles and methods that should be reflected in the evaluation of claim quantumIncludes the standard of substantiation which may be requiredPresents information that is equally applicable in both building and engineering disputesIs substantially expanded from its previous editionsWritten for construction and engineering contract administrators, project managers, quantity surveyors and contract consultants, Evaluating Contract Claims offers a revised third edition to the essential guide for quantifying claims in the construction industry once liability has been established. Read more

Protect your business and preserve your peace of mind.As a residential contractor, chances are you’ve seen it all: litigation threats, withheld payments, and indecisive clients who change plans midproject or, worse, abandon a project altogether.Are you prepared for the unexpected? How do you protect your time, subcontractors, and reputation when even one unhappy customer could derail your progress?In Trust Your Gut, Karalynn Cromeens shares why a residential construction contract is more than a legal document: it’s a safety net. She shows you how to create a contract with clear expectations, breaking down the essentials and guiding you to draft contracts that work for you and your business. Learn how to handle disputes like the pro you are, include the right warranties, define the scope of work, and trust your gut when picking clients.A must-read for all residential contractors, Trust Your Gut shows you how to create peace of mind in writing. Read more

How you can make your construction company more profitable. A 'must read' before you price your next project.Many construction companies fail despite the hard work and knowledge of their managers and owners. Some companies even start well, earning good profits, building successful projects, and the company grows – only for it all to come crashing down, often leaving a mountain of debts behind. So why do construction companies fail? Is it due to bad luck?This book explores important aspects of managing a construction company that impact its success and profitability. Obviously managers should have an understanding of running a business as well as the appropriate technical skills. But, it’s usually more than this. The chapters in this book focus on the importance of selecting the right project, how to find projects, tendering correctly, winning the project, delivering the project, avoiding unnecessary costs, increasing revenue, financial and contractual controls, managing the company, the importance of employing good people, growing the company and ensuring the company has a good reputation.The chapters are set out in an easy to read format, filled with practical tips, which provide a step-by-step guide to growing profits, remaining profitable and running a successful construction company. Read more

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Do you want to build financial success as a contractor?This 350-page book is your ultimate guide in starting a successful contracting business. Kim Hopkins shares the things he wishes he had known when he was just starting up his business. Now, with decades of experience in the industry, Kim provides the essential knowledge that can help you with marketing, leadership, management, and financial success in the contracting industry!From the Author:Million Dollar Contracting covers everything I didn’t know when I started my own contracting company. If I had known what’s in this book, I would have saved my first 20 years of struggling. Whether you’re just starting a contracting company, want to expand, or are struggling, this book will give you a big leg up on success. If you put the principles of this book into practice, you can build financial success for you and your family and become a millionaire.In this book, you will learn:Critical steps when starting a contracting company46 tested methods for getting more workHow to attract the customers who will give you profitable jobsGetting and keeping repeat customersHow to get more positive online reviews and how to avoid bad reviewsBidding jobs more efficiently, including when not to bid a jobCollecting money from slow-paying or non-paying customersFinding, hiring, and keeping great employeesHow to salvage a struggling companyHow to turn you contracting company into a money-making machineThis is for the individuals in the contracting industry or anyone who is trying to level up their game in business. In this book, Kim Hopkins provides the principles and practices that have helped him in maintaining his business at the top. To learn more, grab a copy now! Read more

This popular manual has been updated and improved to bring it more current with modern earthmoving and trenching equipment, refined excavation techniques, stricter safety rules, and improved materials. Here you’ll find how to enter and succeed in the underground utility business. Includes hands-on instructions for operating the equipment and doing the trenching, pipe laying and connecting work and answers to what causes so many skilled equipment operators and pipelayers to fail when they try to start their own business.Learn how to find the right kind of work, read and compute quantities from the plans, figure realistic crew and equipment productivity rates, consider job variables, calculate your O & P, then estimate and bid the job, and get the bonds you need. Also, how to deal with change orders and liquidated damages, choosing the right equipment, and handling safety issues.When it comes to doing the actual work, you’ll find the combined expertise of two long-time professionals, explaining how to follow and read the surveyor’s reference stakes; how to check grade and line with an optical level, transit and pipe laser, and how to use GPS systems. See the best ways to clear the site, including asphalt and rock; handle rock, steep slopes and high groundwater; meet compaction requirements; install septic tanks and drain fields; all common types of water and sewer pipe, and how to do subsurface excavation.This new edition includes detailed coverage of the various pipe, joints and fittings now available, and is filled with photos, diagrams, charts, checklists and examples to help you build a career as a successful pipeline contractor. Read more

THE CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE STUDY GUIDE 2025-2026Ace Your First Try with 500+ Practice Questions, Review Material, and All-Inclusive Exam PrepAre you ready to pass the contractor's license exam and take the first step toward your dream career?Don’t let the exam hold you back! The Contractor’s License Study Guide 2025-2026 is your ultimate guide to passing the test and launching your contracting career with confidence.No stress, no confusion—just effective, targeted prep that gets results.Why This Book Is Your Secret to Success:🛠️ Comprehensive Review: From laws and regulations to safety protocols, business management, and trade-specific knowledge, this guide provides a complete, all-in-one review of everything you need to know for the exam.📚 500+ Realistic Practice Questions: Designed to simulate the actual exam, these practice questions cover every topic you’ll encounter. Plus, real-world scenarios and case studies prepare you for the job, not just the test.🎯 3 Full-Length Simulated Exams: Take full-length practice exams that mirror the format and difficulty of the real test. Evaluate your progress and build your test-taking stamina so you’re ready on exam day.🔑 Proven Test-Taking Strategies: Learn tips and tricks to tackle tricky questions, manage your time effectively, and boost your confidence. We teach you how to approach the exam like a pro.⏱️ Quick, Efficient, and Organized: Perfect for busy professionals. Each section is clearly organized, allowing you to focus on what matters most and review efficiently.📈 Guaranteed Results: This guide is built to help you pass the exam on your first attempt. Stop second-guessing yourself and get the results you deserve.Don’t Waste Time or Money on Retakes!With The Contractor’s License Study Guide 2025-2026, you have everything you need to pass the exam the first time. Order your copy today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in contracting. Your future is just one exam away! Read more

Achieve Success and Secure Your Professional License Mastering The Contractor's License ExamAre you overwhelmed by the vast amount of complex material needed to pass the contractor's license exam and need practical examples to clarify concepts?Do you find it difficult to manage your time and stress while preparing for the exam especially when balancing with job?Are you unsure about the application process for the contractor's license in your state?If you nodded than keep reading…..Passing the contractor exam can be very challenging and requires proper preparation. There's a vast amount of material to study, and you need to manage anxiety, organize your study materials, and allocate both your study time and exam time effectively. It might seem daunting, but with the right strategies and methods, it can be easily accomplished.Robert Paludi, now expert contractor after 30 years of experience on the field, was once struggled just like you. Determined to make the process easier for others, he meticulously compiled everything he learned into this guide. His goal was simple: to create a resource that not only covers every exam topic in detail but also makes the information practical and accessible.The “Contractors License Study Guide” Equips you with the knowledge, strategies, and tools needed to Pass the Exam on Your First Try and build a successful, licensed contracting business.This comprehensive guide is providing you with:Comprehensive Coverage of Exam Topics: All exam subjects and beyond are covered, providing in-depth analysis and detailed explanations to ensure readiness to pass the exam200+ between tables, practical examples and real-world scenario so you gain a practical thorough understanding of the topics.Effective Study Strategies: Benefit from secret strategies designed to help you succeed on your first trybyapplying proven techniques for memorization and reduce exam anxiety.28 Templates: Access practical templatestailored for the real-world needs, useable in your professional career, making it easier to apply what you've learned.Simulated Exam Experience: Practice with full-length simulated exams that mirror the actual test, helping you gauge your readiness and build confidence in your test-taking abilities.BONUS INSIDE950 Practical Tests & Explained Answers: Thorough coverage of all exam topics with a variety of question types and in-deep explained answers to ensure you are well-prepared.“Challenge to Success”: Learn effective time management and study strategies to overcome stress to be successful at first tryDetailed State-by-State Application Instructions: Clear guidance to Know exactly what to do to apply for the exam in your state, saving you time and hassle.And much more…With your contractor's license in hand, you can significantly enhance your business, secure more high-paying jobs, and earn the respect and trust of clients. The path to becoming a licensed contractor is not just about passing an exam; it’s about opening doors to new opportunities and establishing a successful enterprise. This guide is your key to making that dream a reality. Make sure now you have your copy of the “Contractors License Study Guide” and Take the First Step Toward a Successful Contracting Career!Get Your Copy Today Clicking on “BUY NOW!” Read more