Illustrated 2000: Building Code Handbook

I have had a couple of months now to review this book. It is very detailed in many construction techniques. There is a senario for almost every project a contractor or dedicated homeowner could do. The information in the book can be overwhelming, however, with some time to become familiar with the book, it becomes easier to follow.

As the scientific world hails the completion of the first working draft of the human genome map, design professionals can hail the completion of Author Terry L. Patterson's work on understanding the 2000 International Building Code.As a design professional with the responsibility to interpret and understand the numerous building codes and countless amendments, the methods of code research can be exhausting and ill productive. The current format and language used in most building codes lack the framework and illustrations that are needed to join the terms and definitions into an understandable and correct conclusion.Patterson's purpose is to provide an aid to understanding the 2000 International Building Code. The handbook is a success by providing the necessary framework and illustrations that aids the reader to understanding the building code's intent as it relates to real projects.The price of $125.00 may seem a little steep at first, but the cumulative time saved by using the handbook will more than pay for itself many times over.Patterson's work includes the research and input by many design professionals, students and building code officials. The collective efforts by many have produced a handbook that is a must for all design professionals. As all design and construction officials know, a complete and accurate interpretation of the building codes is never complete. In the Preface, Patterson asks the reader to provide useful feedback that can be used for future editions. With the continued combined efforts of many, this Handbook has promise and will continue to be a useful tool for all.Many thanks to Mr. Terry L. Patterson for helping the design professional to understanding the "genome map" of the 2000 International Building code.