Roofing (Builder's Library Series)

This book is actually a collection of articles from Fine Homebuilding magazine. It is not a complete do-it-yourself guide, but an excellent compliment to other reference guides and how-to books. The photograhy is absolutely top notch, and virtually every page has multiple pictures. While the book includes some rather obscure subjects such as roofing with sod and thatching, there are several articles which I consider essential reading for anyone contemplating their first roofing job. Some of the best include "Tearing Off Old Roofing" and "Roofing with Asphalt Shingles". These articles, as with most of them, contain valuable tips and techniques from experienced craftsmen. It's worth mentioning again that the photography alone is worth the purchase price. Don't make this the only book you purchase as a first-time roofer, but definitely include it on your list.