If you work in the building trade, this is a pretty good reference book. I wouldn't recommend it to a novice, but it does give some instruction on various methods. I use it when there is a question of strength, common usage or as a refresher on things I don't do often.Strength is shown in multiple tables for spans, load weights & usage. For instance, over a 10 foot span, can I get by with 2x6 joists, 24" on center, if I use bridging? This book will supply various tables showing me live & dead load weights for living & storage areas along with how much support I get if I use Hem/Fir rather than SPF. Note: This version, 1982, doesn't have much or anything on a lot of the newer supports such as wooden I beams or preformed/stressed partical board beams.Common usage is shown in detailed drawings such as how overhangs are created or corners are done with trusses whether they are cantilevered or top cord over hang.The section on stairs is pretty good. If you don't make them often, you can waste good, expensive wood forgetting to adjust correctly for the top or bottom riser. Tables show you average tread & rise for various applications, too.All in all, it's not a book I look at often, but as an occasional reference, it's a must have if you do serious building. ( )

Popular Science Books; distr. by Meredith Corporation, Des Moines, Iowa. Confusing proliferation of publishers: d.j. lists Macmillan; t.p. recto lists Bennett & McKnight; t.p. verso lists Popular Science (prob. a Popular Science book club edition) and Sedgwood and Meredith.. ( )