Foreword -- Introduction -- [ch.] 1. Getting started : site, design, permits, and preparation -- Step 1. Obtain a site -- 2. Prepare the site -- 3. Design the house -- 4. Secure the building permits -- 5. Get organized to build -- [ch.] 2. Building basics : getting acquainted with tools and the parts of a house -- Tool-buying tips -- Essential hand tools -- Tool carriers -- Power tools -- The parts of a house -- [ch.] 3. Firm, flat, level, and square : foundations and floors -- Know the foundation fundamentals -- Step 1. Form and pour the footings -- 2. Build the foundation walls -- 3. Backfill around the foundation -- 4. Attach the sills -- 5. Build midspan support for joists -- 6. Install the joists -- 7. Install extra joists and blocking -- 8. Install the floor sheathing -- [ch.] 4. Going up : walls create space -- Step 1. Lay out the walls -- 2. Plate the walls -- 3. Count and cut the headers, rough sills, cripples, and trimmers -- 4. Mark the plates -- 5. Build the walls -- 6. Raise the walls -- 7. Plumb and line the walls -- 8. Install and plumb door and window trimmers -- 9. Sheathe the walls -- [ch.] 5. Shelter : a roof overhead -- Roof trusses -- Step 1. Prepare for truss arrival and installation -- 2. Install the gable truss -- 3. Install the remaining trusses -- 4. Secure the trusses to the interior walls -- 5. Add drywall backing -- 6. Install the barge rafters and the fascia boards -- 7. Sheathe the roof -- 8. Seal the roof with felt paper -- 9. Shingle the roof -- [ch.] 6. Closing in : windows, doors, siding, and exterior trim -- Vinyl siding -- Step 1. Install the remaining sheathing and the rough exterior trim -- 2. Install the housewrap and flash openings -- 3. Set the windows and doors -- 4. Complete ventilation and electrical work -- 5. Install the starter strips and the trim for vinyl siding -- 6. Install the siding panels -- 7. Finish the soffits -- 8. Cover exterior trim with aluminum cladding -- [ch.] 7. Building an outdoor room : basic design for porches, decks, and landings -- Design ideas for decks and porches -- Step 1. Complete the essential roof framing -- 2. Install the ledger -- 3. Install the foundation and floor framing -- 4. Frame the stairs -- 5. Install the decking and stair treads -- 6. Install the railings -- [ch.] 8. Comfort inside : sealing, insulating, and ventilating a house -- Sweaters, windbreakers, and rain gear -- Step 1. Seal penetrations in the walls, ceilings, and floors -- 2. Insulate the walls, ceilings, and floors -- 3. Install vapor barriers (if necessary) -- 4. Provide adequate ventilation -- [ch.] 9. The walls within : drywall and painting -- Step 1. Get ready to install drywall -- 2. Install the ceiling panels -- 3. Install the wall panels -- 4. Install the corner bead -- 5. Mud, tape, and finish the drywall -- 6. Paint the ceilings and walls -- 7. Prepare and paint the interior trim -- 8. Paint the exterior siding and trim -- [ch.] 10. Making a house beautiful and useful : interior trim, cabinets, countertops, and closets -- Step 1. Install underlayment for vinyl flooring -- 2. Install the interior doors -- 3. Install the window and door casings -- 4. Install the cabinets -- 5. Install the countertops -- 6. Install the baseboard and chair rail -- 7. Trim out the closets -- [ch.] 11. Final details : from locks to smoke detectors to landscaping -- Step 1. Install the hardware and fixtures -- 2. Select and install the finish flooring -- 3. Get to know electrical and mechanical systems -- 4. Prepare for the worst -- Resources -- Index.