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Modern Carpentry is a colorful, easy-to-
understand source of authoritative and up-to-
date information on building materials, tools,
and construction methods. It provides detailed
coverage of all aspects of light construction.
Included are site development, print reading, site
layout, excavating, foundation work, framing,
sheathing, insulating, roofing, window and
door installation, exterior finishing, interior
finishing, and mechanical systems.
Chapters are arranged in a logical sequence
similar to the order builders use to complete
various phases of home construction. Special
emphasis is given to the carpenter’s workplace
and what is expected of a new carpenter on a
job site. The workplace chapter covers basic
skills, attitudes, and relationship to coworkers. It
strongly focuses on safe work habits in handling
tools, materials, and prefabricated components.
An introductory chapter discusses the
entire scope of materials—old and new—that
are available. This chapter includes size and
grade descriptions as well as technical infor-
mation covering physical properties and other
important characteristics. Scientific and tech-
nical discoveries have led to the development
of many new materials including engineered
lumber, better insulation, and more-energy-
efficient doors and windows.
The proper use and application of these
materials depends on craftspersons with consid-
erable knowledge of the products and mate-
rials and how those materials should function
in a completed structure. Use of prefabricated
components, or even entire prefabricated struc-
tures, is having a significant impact on how
homes are constructed on the building site. The
market for housing partly or entirely built in a
factory is expected to show continued growth
beyond the 30% market share witnessed in
recent years.
Beyond a solid discussion of building basics,
Modern Carpentry covers special topics such
as constructing stairs, chimneys, fireplaces, and
decks. Systems-built (prefabricated) houses,
remodeling, cabinet installation, solar construc-
tion, and painting and decorating are also
covered.
Modern Carpentry also provides chap-
ters introducing mechanical systems: electrical
wiring, plumbing, and heating and cooling
(HVAC). More than cursory discussions of
principles, these chapters explain how to install
such systems.
Supplementing the text materials are more
than 1600 photographs and line art illustra-
tions. These are coordinated with step-by-step
instructions and clear descriptions.
Modern Carpentry is designed as a compre-
hensive text for carpentry students at various
levels, including high schools, vocational-
technical schools, colleges, and apprentice training
programs. It also serves as a valuable reference
for students in architectural drafting and for
journeymen carpenters and construction super-
visors. The book will enable do-it-yourselfers
to handle many construction projects they may
otherwise be reluctant to undertake. This edition
incorporates input of consultants in both resi-
dential and light commercial construction.
Willis H. Wagner
Howard Bud Smith
Introduction