The first edition of this book has sold nearly 100,000 copies. This completely revised and updated edition is more comprehensive and reflects the most recent changes in residential frame construction. It contains more details for energy efficiency, use of modern engineered and composite materials, and construction in high-wind and seismic areas. It's well annotated and covers foundations, floors, walls, stairs, and roofs. Because examples are taken from actual job sites by a trusted expert, this book is an invaluable visual aid that can help builders and homeowners alike to tackle a wide range of framing projects.

Graphic Guide to Interior Details and Graphic Guide to Site Construction are also available.

It is divided into five chapters, which follow the approximate order of construction, starting with the foundation and working up to the roof. Chapter 1: Foundations, deals with footings, foundation walls, pier and grade-beam systems, basement walls, retaining walls, drainage and waterproofing, wall caps, slabs, and utilities. Chapter 2: Floors, covers beams, joist systems, girder systems, subflooring, porches and decks, and insulation. Chapter 3: Walls, includes framing, lateral bracing, sheathing, shear walls, moisture and air barriers, windows, doors, flashing, exterior finishes, and insulation. Chapter 4: Roofs, handles framing, sheathing, flashing, roofing, gutters and downspouts, and insulation and ventilation. Chapter 5: Stairs, includes information on framing, treads and risers, balustrades, handrails, exterior stairs, and exterior steps.