Creative Homeowner Ultimate Guide Home Repair and Improvement

by Creative Homeowner

The most complete home improvement manual on the market, this book comprises over 2,300 photos, 800 drawings, and an understandable, practical text that covers your home top to bottom, inside and out in 608 pages. Readers will find plumbing and electrical repairs; information on heating and cooling, roofing and siding, and cabinets and countertops; and more. There is information about tools, materials, and basic skills, and 325 step-by-step projects with how-to photo sequences. The Ultimate Guide to Home Repair & Improvement also includes a Remodeling Guide and a Resource Guide. Top to bottom, inside and out, this is the single, ultimate resource book for home projects and repairs.

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference, Home Improvement, How To

607 pages, Hardcover

Published August 30, 2011

Reviews

[Katie Cunningham]

I read this book like it was a damn Jane Austen novel. Why? Because we just bought our first house, and houses are confusing and upsetting.

I love the way it breaks things out by area. While I wouldn't consider any one page good enough to really get me 100% ready to do a project, it gives me what I need to start researching.

[raccoon reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really cool book. Gives just enough to not overwhelm and covers almost everything you could think of. We just bought a house that's new to us (built in 40s) and needs a lot of work. I went through this book and made a laundry list of repairs that we need to do. I didn't use the book to do any of the repairs so it may suck for that, but as for just letting you know all the areas that you can fix/look for problems- it's awesome.

[Jessica Brainard · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement by Creative Homeowner is a comprehensive, visually rich manual that lives up to its reputation as one of the most complete home improvement resources on the market. Spanning 608 pages, this 3rd updated edition (published 2021) is packed with over 3,400 photos and illustrations, including 325 step-by-step DIY projects, making it an invaluable tool for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and even seasoned contractors.The book covers virtually every aspect of home maintenance and improvement, from plumbing and electrical repairs to roofing, siding, flooring, and cabinetry. Its strength lies in its clear, easy-to-follow instructions, paired with vibrant color photography and detailed diagrams that guide readers through each project. For example, sections on installing USB outlets, understanding AFCI/GFCI breakers, and maintaining tankless water heaters reflect recent code updates, ensuring relevance for modern homes. The inclusion of a remodeling guide and resource section adds practical value for planning larger projects or sourcing materials.

Standout features include its accessibility for beginners and its depth for intermediate DIYers. A Goodreads reviewer praised it for being comprehensive without overwhelming, noting its usefulness for identifying repair needs in an older home (built in the 1940s). The book’s focus on money-saving projects, like insulation and ventilation upgrades, appeals to budget-conscious homeowners. Amazon reviews (4.7/5 from 883 ratings) highlight its clarity and breadth, with one user calling it “the definitive ‘how-to’ reference” for home maintenance.

However, some critiques exist. A Reddit user seeking advice on the book wondered if it’s the best option, suggesting it may feel too general for advanced users. Additionally, while the book excels as a diagnostic tool, one reviewer noted they hadn’t tested the repair instructions, so their real-world accuracy may vary. The sheer volume of information can also make navigation tricky without a more detailed index.

Overall, this guide is a must-have for anyone looking to tackle home repairs or upgrades with confidence. Its blend of practical advice, up-to-date content, and visual clarity makes it a standout. I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars, docking a half-point for potential indexing improvements and the need for hands-on validation of some instructions. Perfect for first-time homeowners or DIYers seeking a one-stop resource.

[Bea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great reference for the novice or skilled home repair person. Clear explanations and ample illustrations for roof to basement plus exterior ideas. Period photos add a nice touch. Well organized and that makes it easy to use. Keep this resource in an easy to find location.