Best Home Repair Books of 2025

Wilson Cook Avatar
Wilson Cook
Last Updated: Apr 26, 2023

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Home repair books are an essential tool for anyone looking to tackle DIY projects in their home. These books provide step-by-step instructions on everything from basic repairs to more complex renovations. They often include detailed illustrations and photographs to make the process as clear as possible. With a home repair book, homeowners can save money by doing repairs themselves, as well as gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their home. Whether it's fixing a leaky faucet or installing new flooring, home repair books offer valuable guidance and knowledge for any skill level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair Cover #TOP 1
Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement, 3rd Updated Edition: Proven Money-Saving Projects, 3,400 Photos & Illustrations (Creative Homeowner) 608-Page Resource with 325 Step-by-Step DIY Projects Cover #TOP 2
Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement, 3rd Updated Edition: Proven Money-Saving Projects, 3,400 Photos & Illustrations (Creative Homeowner) 608-Page Resource with 325 Step-by-Step DIY Projects
ftb score rating icon 9.8
The Very Efficient Carpenter: Basic Framing for Residential Construction (For Pros / By Pros) Cover #TOP 3
The Very Efficient Carpenter: Basic Framing for Residential Construction (For Pros / By Pros)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Home Repair Books

#TOP 1

Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair

Stardust, Mercury
Aug 29, 2023
Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair Cover
Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair

Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair is a comprehensive guide for anyone who feels intimidated by home repairs. The book provides guidance for over 50 simple home maintenance projects, with chapters covering basic and handy repairs for plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and safety needs. The author, Mercury Stardust, is a professional home maintenance technician and an award-winning activist. The book is tailored to renters and provides advice to minimize permanent changes. With helpful illustrations and QR code links to videos, this book is a must-have for anyone who wants to feel more in control of their own home.

Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement, 3rd Updated Edition: Proven Money-Saving Projects, 3,400 Photos & Illustrations (Creative Homeowner) 608-Page Resource with 325 Step-by-Step DIY Projects

Editors of Creative Homeowner
Charles Byers
Nov 8, 2021
Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement, 3rd Updated Edition: Proven Money-Saving Projects, 3,400 Photos & Illustrations (Creative Homeowner) 608-Page Resource with 325 Step-by-Step DIY Projects Cover
Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement, 3rd Updated Edition: Proven Money-Saving Projects, 3,400 Photos & Illustrations (Creative Homeowner) 608-Page Resource with 325 Step-by-Step DIY Projects

The Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement is the most comprehensive home improvement manual available. It includes over 2,300 photos, 800 drawings, and practical text to guide you through more than 325 step-by-step DIY projects. The book covers essential information on tools, materials, and basic skills, as well as comprehensive sections on wiring, plumbing, roofing, siding, heating, cooling, flooring, cabinets, and more. It also includes a remodeling guide, a resource guide, and a thorough index and glossary. This updated third edition provides information on recent code updates and changes, making it the most trusted resource book for DIY projects and repairs to save you money when maintaining your home.

The Very Efficient Carpenter: Basic Framing for Residential Construction (For Pros / By Pros)

Haun, Larry
Taunton Press
Oct 1, 1998
The Very Efficient Carpenter: Basic Framing for Residential Construction (For Pros / By Pros) Cover
The Very Efficient Carpenter: Basic Framing for Residential Construction (For Pros / By Pros)

The Very Efficient Carpenter is a comprehensive guide to basic framing for residential construction, written by Larry Haun, a carpenter with over 35 years of experience. The book covers everything from laying down sills to cutting rafters, and includes information on tools, plans, codes, permits, lumber, and materials. It also provides additional information on safety and site-built tools. Haun's step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations make this book an excellent resource for both professional carpenters and apprentices. Overall, The Very Efficient Carpenter is a valuable addition to any home design and construction book collection.

Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring Updated 8th Edition: Current with 2020-2023 Electrical Codes (Volume 8) (Black & Decker Complete Guide, 8)

Editors of Cool Springs Press
Feb 8, 2022
Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring Updated 8th Edition: Current with 2020-2023 Electrical Codes (Volume 8) (Black & Decker Complete Guide, 8) Cover
Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring Updated 8th Edition: Current with 2020-2023 Electrical Codes (Volume 8) (Black & Decker Complete Guide, 8)

The Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring Updated 8th Edition is a comprehensive home wiring manual that has been the best-selling guide in North America for over 15 years. The book provides clear, up-to-date advice on wiring projects that meet national wiring codes. With over 800 color photos and 40 diagrams, readers can easily understand home electrical service, common circuits, essential tools, and materials. The book also includes chapters on safety, preliminary work, and common and repair wiring projects. The book is an excellent resource for homeowners who want to tackle their own electrical projects.

Good Housekeeping Home Skills: Master Your Domain with Practical Solutions to Everyday Challenges

Good Housekeeping
Francisco, Jane
Mar 15, 2022
Good Housekeeping Home Skills: Master Your Domain with Practical Solutions to Everyday Challenges Cover
Good Housekeeping Home Skills: Master Your Domain with Practical Solutions to Everyday Challenges

The Good Housekeeping Home Skills book is a comprehensive guide that offers over 850 essential life skills to help readers get things done faster and easier. Divided into six sections, the book covers everything from kitchen equipment and pantry stocking tips to DIY cleaning solution recipes and tricks for fixing appliances. The book also includes QR codes throughout the pages for additional lessons and video instruction. The Good Housekeeping team provides practical and trusted expert advice, making this book a go-to resource for anyone looking to keep their home in tip-top shape.

#TOP 6

100 Things Every Homeowner Must Know: How to Save Money, Solve Problems and Improve Your Home (Family Handyman 100)

Editors Of Family Handyman
Trusted Media Brands
Apr 7, 2015
100 Things Every Homeowner Must Know: How to Save Money, Solve Problems and Improve Your Home (Family Handyman 100) Cover
100 Things Every Homeowner Must Know: How to Save Money, Solve Problems and Improve Your Home (Family Handyman 100)

The Family Handyman's 100 Things Every Homeowner Must Know is a comprehensive guide that equips homeowners with the knowledge to make informed decisions, avoid frustrations, and save thousands over the life of their home. The book covers various topics, including home maintenance, natural disasters, burglars, heating and cooling costs, and more. The book is easy to read and includes clever shortcuts that can help homeowners save money and time. Overall, this book is a valuable resource for homeowners looking to improve their homes, and it is highly recommended for anyone interested in DIY home improvement projects.

Ultimate Guide: Walks, Patios & Walls (Creative Homeowner) Design Ideas with Step-by-Step DIY Instructions and More Than 500 Photos for Brick, Mortar, Concrete, Flagstone, & Tile (Landscaping)

Editors of Creative Homeowner
Landscaping
Design Originals
Jun 3, 2010
Ultimate Guide: Walks, Patios & Walls (Creative Homeowner) Design Ideas with Step-by-Step DIY Instructions and More Than 500 Photos for Brick, Mortar, Concrete, Flagstone, & Tile (Landscaping) Cover
Ultimate Guide: Walks, Patios & Walls (Creative Homeowner) Design Ideas with Step-by-Step DIY Instructions and More Than 500 Photos for Brick, Mortar, Concrete, Flagstone, & Tile (Landscaping)

The Ultimate Guide: Walks, Patios & Walls is an excellent resource for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor living areas with walkways, patios, and garden walls. With dozens of design ideas, over 500 photos and illustrations, and easy-to-follow, step-by-step sequences, the book covers popular landscape projects such as setting pavers, creating a new patio with tile or stone, and building a wall that will stand the test of time. The book is well-organized and easy to follow, making it a valuable tool for any DIY homeowner looking to improve their landscape design. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to add value and curb-side appeal to their home.

#TOP 8

HVAC for Beginners: The Most Updated Guide to Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technology | How to Repair and Install Equipment for Residential and Commercial Buildings

Woolery, Lance
Apr 11, 2023
HVAC for Beginners: The Most Updated Guide to Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technology | How to Repair and Install Equipment for Residential and Commercial Buildings Cover
HVAC for Beginners: The Most Updated Guide to Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technology | How to Repair and Install Equipment for Residential and Commercial Buildings

For those who want to learn about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technology, "HVAC for Beginners" is a must-read. This book is perfect for technicians and DIY enthusiasts who want to learn about HVAC technology and how to optimize it at home. It explains the principles of HVAC in simple terms, provides common troubleshooting tips, and highlights energy-saving and money-saving tips that work in any environment. The book also covers different types of systems, common installation mistakes, and key maintenance considerations. Overall, "HVAC for Beginners" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn about HVAC technology and improve their existing setup in minutes.

#TOP 9

I Love You Rituals

Bailey, Becky A
William Morrow Paperbacks
Nov 21, 2000

I Love You Rituals is a must-have book for parents, caregivers, and teachers who want to enhance children's social, emotional, and school success. The book offers more than seventy rhymes, games, and activities that can be played with children from infancy through age eight. These rituals help prime a child's brain for learning, cope with change, enhance attention, cooperation, and self-esteem, and affirm the parent-child bond that insulates children from violence, peer pressure, and drugs. The author, Becky A. Bailey, Ph.D., specializes in early childhood education and developmental psychology, and her expertise shines through in every page of this book.

Small Engines and Outdoor Power Equipment, Updated 2nd Edition: A Care & Repair Guide for: Lawn Mowers, Snowblowers & Small Gas-Powered Imple

Editors of Cool Springs Press
Cool Springs Press
Sep 28, 2020
Small Engines and Outdoor Power Equipment, Updated 2nd Edition: A Care & Repair Guide for: Lawn Mowers, Snowblowers & Small Gas-Powered Imple Cover
Small Engines and Outdoor Power Equipment, Updated 2nd Edition: A Care & Repair Guide for: Lawn Mowers, Snowblowers & Small Gas-Powered Imple

This updated edition of Small Engines and Outdoor Power Equipment is a comprehensive guide to maintaining and repairing outdoor power equipment, including lawn mowers, snow blowers, and chain saws. With step-by-step instructions and clear photos and diagrams, even beginners with little mechanical experience can learn to service and repair their equipment. The troubleshooting guide helps define problems and enact solutions. This book is a must-have for any home-owning, weekend warrior. The collaboration between the Editors of Cool Springs Press and BLACK+DECKER has produced a high-quality DIY book that sets the standard for do-it-yourself publications.

Buying Guide Image

Reader's Guide: Best Home Repair Books

Introduction

When it comes to home repair and maintenance, having the right resources on hand can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting out, having a good selection of home repair books can provide valuable guidance, tips, and inspiration.

Consider Your Needs and Skills

Before you start shopping for home repair books, it's important to consider your own needs and skills. Are you looking for general advice on maintaining your home, or do you have specific projects in mind? Do you have experience with home repairs, or are you a complete beginner?

If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to start with books that provide an overview of common home repair tasks and techniques. These books can help you gain a basic understanding of tools, materials, and safety considerations, and can also provide step-by-step instructions for common projects such as painting, tile work, and basic carpentry.

If you're more experienced, you may be looking for books that cover specific types of repairs or offer advanced advice on topics such as electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC. In this case, it's a good idea to look for books written by experienced professionals in the field, or books that are specifically designed for advanced DIYers.

Look for Detailed, Easy-to-Follow Instructions

One of the most important things to look for in a home repair book is detailed, easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, having clear, step-by-step instructions can make all the difference when it comes to completing a project successfully.

Look for books that include illustrations or photos to help clarify instructions, and pay attention to the level of detail provided. For example, a book that simply says "measure the length of the wall" without providing specific instructions on how to measure it may not be as helpful as a book that provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to measure accurately.

Check for Up-to-Date Information

Another important factor to consider when choosing a home repair book is the age of the information it contains. The world of home repair and maintenance is constantly evolving, and what was once considered "standard practice" may no longer be the best or safest way to do things.

To ensure that you're getting the most up-to-date information, look for books that have been published recently, or books that include a revision date. You may also want to check online to see if the author or publisher has released any updates or corrections since the book was published.

Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a great home repair book is to read reviews and ask for recommendations from people you trust. Look for reviews from people who have similar skills and needs to your own, and pay attention to comments about the clarity and usefulness of the instructions, as well as the overall quality of the book.

You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family members, or colleagues who are experienced with home repairs. They may be able to recommend books that have been helpful to them, or warn you against books that aren't worth your time or money.

Conclusion

Choosing the right home repair books can be a valuable investment in your home and your DIY skills. By considering your needs and skills, looking for detailed, easy-to-follow instructions, checking for up-to-date information, and reading reviews and asking for recommendations, you can find books that will provide valuable guidance and inspiration for all your home repair projects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I keep track of home repairs?

“I highly recommend homeowners start a spreadsheet or some other type of record with receipts of improvements they've made since the purchase of their home,” Graham said. “They may need these records for a future sale, tax or insurance reasons, divorce/separation purposes, etc.”

Editor's Notes

During our home repair book research, we found 1,200+ home repair book products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 28,699 customer reviews through our big data system to write the home repair books list. We found that most customers choose home repair books with an average price of $17.45.

Written by
Wilson Cook Avatar

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.