Self Build Books

There are a number of books available to help with your build. The following are our favourites. Click on the links for reader reviews or to purchase a book from Amazon.

The Housebuilder’s Bible (8th Ed) – This book is quite simply excellent! It contains comprehensive information on all aspects of house building and is understandable and engaging. The rate tables for the various build elements are invaluable for building up realistic cost projections. Mark Brinkley has a wealth of knowledge as a builder and self builder and is a regular contributor to Homebuilding and Renovating Magazine. He also speaks at the exhibitions and can often be found signing copies of his book. His knowledge, experience and understanding of the industry continue to contribute to producing the definitive guide to house building. If you buy one book to help with your build, this should be it.

Building Your Own Home (18th Ed) – Another great book and a staple in the bookshelves of self builders around the country. It is written by David Snell who is an expert in the field of house building. He’s a regular speaker at industry shows and exhibitions and writes for numerous publications. The book guides you through the essentials whether you are building, renovating, converting or extending your own home. As well as the usual information it incorporates checklists, a trouble shooting/problem solving section and case studies to make your project run even smoother.
The Building Construction Handbook (8th Ed) – If you are intending on getting a bit more involved in the actual construction of your project or are interested in technical details or procedures then it is worth considering getting your hands on a copy of the Building Construction Handbook. This book is often recommended to building and construction students and “summarises all elements of building construction practice, techniques, components and procedures “(Building Construction Handbook, 2004) whilst incorporating all relevant regulations.
You Can Do It: The Complete B&Q Step-by-Step Book of Home Improvement
Collins Complete DIY Manual – Comprehensive guide to DIY

Book Reviews?

Which books are sitting dog eared, well used and loved in your bookshelves? Which ones helped you through your self build adventure?

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