Top 5 Books on Basic Home Improvement Projects

Home improvement projects can range from repairing leaky faucets to installing new flooring. The economic recession has brought out the "handier" side of people. More homeowners are putting away the phone book and are picking up a tool belt. Whether you are a novice or a do-it-yourself expert, here are five great books that will show you the ropes to home improvement.

Big Book of Home How-To
ISBN-13: 9780696221804
Authors: Better Homes & Garden, Larry Erickson
List Price: $24.95 (online $18.21- Amazon)

As one of the largest do-it-yourself home improvement books on the market, Big Book of Home How-To serves as a wonderful resource for home renovations. This book does a superb job of explaining home improvement projects making them easy to perform. The detailed illustrations offer clear directions for both new comers and the do-it-yourself savvy. Each chapter is tailored to different skill sets offering instructions for the basic and advanced. Readers of this book will find it extremely resourceful.

Home Improvement 1-2-3: Expert Advice from The Home Depot
ISBN-13: 9780696213274
Authors: Home Depot staff, John Holms
List Price: $19.50 Amazon

Home Depot is recognized in the industry as a home improvement resource giant. They demonstrate their knowledge with this easy to follow book. What makes this book unique is the time lines it sets for novice, advanced, and experienced do-it-yourselfers. Home Improvement 1-2-3 covers not only home improvement projects, but also, home maintenance and repair. As an added benefit, readers can enjoy professional advice on ways to save money, buying tools, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Black and Decker Complete Home Improvement: With 300 Projects and 2300 Photos
ISBN-13: 9781589233553
Authors: Creative Publishing International, Black & Decker Corporation
List Price: $24.95 (online $22.45- Barnes & Noble)

This book is intended for the more advanced as it moves beyond basic home repair. Covering 350 projects, the Black and Decker Complete Home Improvement Book concentrates on more in depth projects around the home. Users will enjoy a washable flex cover that offers durability on project sites. Those who purchase the book will also receive a homeowners convenience kit which includes reminder stickers and a home maintenance reminder calendar.

Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual: Completely Revised and Updated
ISBN-13: 9780762105793
Authors: Family Handyman magazine Editors
List Price: $35.00 (online $28.00- Barnes & Noble)

Family Handyman magazine has outdone itself with a complete, do-it-yourself manual. Originally published in 1973, this manual features over 3000 photos and easy to follow advice for readers. This edition was written for new homeowners who want to take a stab at being their own handyman. Instructions in this book can be applied to both rural homes and urban dwellings. This book does a great job at breaking down materials needed for projects. Bonus materials to this edition include home storage and landscaping advice.

New Fit-It-Yourself Manual
ISBN-13: 9780895778710
Authors: Editors of Reader's Digest
List Price:$38.00 (online $23.10 Amazon)

The New Fit-It-Yourself Manual has been around (in a different form) since the 1970's. For decades, readers have learned basic home improvement tasks like fixing a toilet, electrical/heating issues, and appliance repairs.. This is a very inspirational book that serves as a manual, reference for emergencies, and homeowner's encyclopedia. Readers have been thoroughly satisfied with the book gaining knowledge comparable to a handyman.