We can all use a visual explanation of residential construction
details at one time or another. Rob Thallon
has put together one of the best collections of drawings for
frame construction and interior details. The Graphic Guide to
Frame Construction (1991) and the Graphic Guide to Interior
Details (1996) are both intended as reference books for builders
and designers ($30 each, Taunton
Press, P.O. Box 5506, Newtown, CT
06470, 800/888-8286). The frame
construction book covers foundations,
floors, walls, roofs, and stairs.
The interior details book covers walls,
ceilings, floors, cabinets, countertops,
trim, and stairs, and has appendices
on paints/coatings, composite panels,
fire/safety codes, and sound reduction.
Both books are slightly over 200 pages. The obvious
strength of