Description

The Australian Renovator’s Manual

Home Renovation Guide Book

7th Ed 2015

by Allan Staines

The Australian Renovator’s Manual addresses the practical problems you’ll encounter when renovating or altering an existing home. First published in 1989 and now in its 7th edition, it focuses on the most common renovation projects Australian homeowners tackle.

Problem solving: This manual helps diagnose and fix typical issues in older homes including rising damp, floor and wall cracking, timber decay, termite damage, small kitchens and bathrooms, and leaking shower recesses. Each problem includes trade methods and practical solutions.

Renovation projects covered: The book walks through step-by-step instructions for popular home improvements: building attic rooms, installing skylights and French doors, enclosing patios and verandahs, enlarging window openings, building carports, replacing floor joists and flooring, fixing sagging roof rafters, and re-stumping.

You’ll also find guidance on supporting roofs when creating wall openings, installing guttering and shelving, applying Gyprock, attaching laminate, wall and floor tiling, painting, and cooling a hot house. Building Books Australia recommends this title for anyone dealing with older Australian homes where these issues are common.

Materials and methods: The manual specifies correct adhesives, sealants and fillers for different applications, including fixing laminate panelling in shower recesses. All methods align with current Building Code of Australia requirements and Australian trade practices.

Room extensions: This book focuses on general renovations and alterations. For adding rooms or extensions to your home, see How to be a Successful Owner Builder and Renovator – many customers purchase both titles together through Building Books Australia.

Technical specifications:

• 7th Edition (current)
• 110 pages
• Australian building standards and methods
• Detailed trade illustrations
• First published 1989

Who it’s for: DIY renovators, homeowners managing renovation projects, owner-builders working on existing homes, and anyone dealing with common problems in older Australian houses.