Book Description
This useful guide emphasizes life-safety principles underlying building codes. Designed for quick reference, this edition reflects the most up-to-date changes in the 2003 International Residential Code. Also cross-referenced to the Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code, and the National Electrical Code, Code Check Revised is endorsed by the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO). Included are summaries of international code specifications in an easy-to-use format that reduces code violation callbacks.
Customer Reviews:
Good reference........2007-08-22
This is definitely not the only reference you need but it answers a lot of questions you run into with residential construction, relatively inexpensive tool to keep in the truck under the seat.
A Must Have.......2007-02-12
Excellent knowledge base for the DIY and pro. This series of books will show you everything you need to know to do it right the first time and pass those crucial inspections.
Great books for EVERYONE to use.......2006-11-13
First I'll preface my comments by saying that I do NOT know any of the authors as one poster here suggest of everyone who left a favorable review.
These books are a great tool for everyone from experienced to novice. Sure it's tough to nail down every code book that 1000 pages and condense that in to a form to use out in the field. But I find in the rare instances as the one poster uses in his example, that it helps to go straight to the source if there are any questions about what is written. The fact that they list exactly what code to reference saves time because you go straight to the actual code.
Even if 80% of the book gives you enough information to check your work and you only have to go review the other 20% directly from the code books themself you have saved a HUGE amount of time.
These are not the "end all to be all" but I certainly recommend these books to handymen, do-it-yourselfers, and subcontractors alike.
Code check.......2005-08-11
This is a great cliff note to california building codes. Very helpful in the field and at the drafting table. A must have for those just starting out in the profesion.
Good help for the Do-it-yourself remodeler........2004-02-12
If you're a do it yourself remodeler or basement finisher this is a good reference to make sure you meet the building codes. It provides some quick answers to things like nailing requirements, maximum spans for doors, roof frames, and floor joists, and many other quick facts for plumbing, electrical, fire and structural codes. But for many questions/issues it just lists the IRC or UPC reference. For that reason it would be even more valuable if you had a copy of the International Residential Code in case you needed more details since it provides the references. I have a building permit to finish my basement and I want to make sure that I meet the codes and this book has been helpful. I plan to buy the plumbing, building and electrical Code Check too.
Book Description
Endorsed by the International Conference of Building Officials, this comprehensive reference guide to current national building codes covers foundations, framing, exterior and interior walls, fireplaces, and chimneys. 85 color illustrations in addition to the principles behind the codes and information on requirements are included in this practical manual with durable laminated pages, formatted in a handy spiral-bound edition.
Customer Reviews:
A Must Have.......2007-02-12
Excellent knowledge base for the DIY and pro. This series of books will show you everything you need to know to do it right the first time and pass those crucial inspections.
valuable quick reference.......2006-01-16
Although the graphics seem simplistic at first glance, they make the information easy to grasp. I had several "ah-ha, I get it" moments when browsing for information. I actually enjoyed looking at this code reference. That's a first!
This one is a must.......2005-09-06
Anyone building or taking a builders test should have a copy.
Not for Contractors taking thier test.......2005-09-06
This book is NOT useful for anyone taking there Class "A" Contractor Test with PSI. It is more useful for commercial applications.
Know your codes beforehand.......2005-05-17
This is great "refresher" material on the job-site. It is VERY short on length. Sixteen sheets of plastically laminated paper (spill-proof) that increase in size...basically they are self-tabbed by the major topic areas. So the first page is about half the physical length of the last page (which is about legal pad size). I found the material reasonable for being condensed in such a small amount of space, but nearly impossible to "understand" a code just from the pamphlet alone. It doesn't make for easy reading unless you know already what you're looking for and its so short that even if you did, you might just miss it.
Book Description
Providing necessary details on how to avoid common plumbing code violations, this indispensable and easy-to-use flip guide emphasizes the safety principles that underlie both the new International Plumbing Code and the standard International Code and Building Organization system. Completely updated to reflect current requirements, the handy guide is a valuable resource for all professional builders, inspectors, and homeowners.
Customer Reviews:
A Must Have.......2007-02-12
Excellent knowledge base for the DIY and pro. This series of books will show you everything you need to know to do it right the first time and pass those crucial inspections.
Buyer Beware.......2003-04-23
When it was difficult to get to the library to view the Uniform Plumbing Code, I used this at home to study for an exam. I was rudely surprised when I got to the libary, compared the references to the code, and found that this guide was riddled with errors. It serves a purpose as it alerts the user to possible code issues, but you must check all references. The codes are expensive but not as expensive as counting on this guide might be.
What a plumbing instructor thinks........2003-01-01
Code check has helped me immensely. I teach residential plumbing for a 150+ employee 1500+ homes a year Northern California company and have found that the info in C.C. is formatted in such a way that my apprentice plumbers can easily find info they need. They seldom need clarification. All codes cited are referenced with the UPC and IRC section numbers for easy look up.(IRC not used here in NorCal but nice for those who need it) Diagrams are simple and clear. C.C. is laminated and tough. Built for in the field use. I love this book. Holding back the fifth star due to spanish version unavailability.
Its helpful.......2002-12-06
This has good diagrams, good descriptions, but is very basic. For the money you can find a better source.
Code Check Plumbing.......2001-12-28
All jurisdictional and private industry inspectors including anyone who is a state licensed general and/or plumbing contractor, and of course, home owners who wish to know the codes regarding plumbing systems.
Or, "don't leave home without it!"
Book Description
With extensive information on electrical code requirements and the principles behind them, Code Check: Electrical summarizes national and international electrical code specifications. The spiral-bound Code Check series, with durable laminated pages, is designed to be used on-site for quick reference and is endorsed by the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO).
Customer Reviews:
Overly simplified - don't use.......2001-08-04
Be careful using this. It really is just a light skimming of basic code, usually not drawn out into enough detail to keep you out of trouble. It is more like someone's handwritten notes of common questions, not at all at 'authoratative' level that a 'code check' type of title might lead you to believe. You could maybe catch basic violations of someone else's work, but do not use it to convince yourself that someone else did their work correctly, and do not use it as a guide in your own work.
Sketchy.......2001-04-20
I suppose if you are already familiar with all of the code sections involved in an electrical code inspection, or at least the portion presented in this form, this would be a helpful form. However, if, even as a building inspector, you need occassional reminders of exactly what an electrical code section involves, this may force the user into guessing what is meant by a particular item on this form.
Unfortunately, as a result, I firmly believe, inspections done using this form will not represent a reasonable degree of accuracy. Some of the diagrams are useful. However, a great deal is still lacking in helping the inspector, layman or professional, in understanding exactly what they are looking for.
For instance, one of the items under "Other Services" in the "Temporary Power Pole" section reads "Identify insulated neutral at both ends". If the National Electric Code Section referenced (200-6b) is accurate, then this actually means that non-white wires in temporary power systems that are #6 or larger, but not the commonly used #8 copper, must be marked with a white identification tape wrapped around the insulation of the wire in the junction boxes in which both ends of the wire terminate. I'm not sure many of my fellow professionals in the building inspection profession, much less the layman, would know these specifics from this short identifying phrase provided in the form. Furthermore, it could take several books, including a copy of the National Electric Code itself, for someone to fully understand what this code section means.
As a result, I don't believe that this form is designed for the layman at all. I don't believe it will be useful to the typical home buyer having a home built. I think they could be much better served by the local code inspectors. If they were not convinced that a local code inspector would be likely to serve them well, for whatever reason, they should consider using the money to help pay for a full-fledged private inspection by a local home inspector who does new construction inspections.
Newest version of Code Check Electrical is based on 99'NEC........2000-05-08
The second edition of Code Check electrical that is being offered here is based on the 99' NEC. Many states are still on the 96'(CA, OR etc.) NEC and the first edition is still available to them directly from the publisher, Taunton Press.
Book Description
Cross-referenced to the current Uniform Mechanical Code and International Residential Code, Code Check: HVAC details the requirements for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems and explains the reasons behind the codes. In a spiral-bound design with durable laminated pages, this reference is perfect for on-site use.
Customer Reviews:
HVAC Code Ceck.......2005-09-09
Needs to be updated to include IBC 2003. Still showing 2002. Don't expect a new edition. Note printing of June 2002.
Book Description
Using clear language and helpful diagrams, Code Check: West emphasizes the principles underlying building codes and covers the Uniform Codes, International Residential Code, and National Electric Code. It reflects the most up-to-date building codes for California, Oregon, and Washington in a spiral-bound format with durable laminated pages designed to be used on-site for quick reference.
Customer Reviews:
The Ultimate Guide to Building Code.......2003-07-13
I found out about the Code Check series from a local building inspector. I was in getting permits to do some major remodel work. I asked how I would know what they were looking for in an inspection. He told me "Buy Code Check. It's what we use."
It presents the code in an easily read, flip chart format. The pages are laminated so you can take it out on the job and use it day in, day out for reference. This book doesn't explain why the code is the way it is! It does give a list of the most often needed code sections AND pictures as to how certain critical items should be done. For example: How should you ground a main service panel. How to properly add romex onto a knob and tube wiring system and many more.
I found the entire series invaluable. The proof is in the results. The building inspectors loved my work and I breezed through most inspections.
Simply a checklist.......2002-11-15
I'd disagree with the description. This is not what most would call a book nor does it explain principles.
Rather, this is a collection of field ready waterproof code-compliance checklists, bound together pages with pictures and minimal dialog. It doesn't explain principles, it describes commonly checked items. It's useful to remind you what you need to focus on. Would be an excellent field guide for someone reviewing code compliance, not very useful for a designer. FYI, I've got over 20 years in construction. It would also be useful to let a home-builder see what they need to learn!
Amazon.com
In the mind-boggling confusion of electrical codes, Redwood Kardon, a building inspector for the city of Oakland, California, has pulled together a comprehensive manual, more a tool than a book per se. Code Check Electrical offers the straight dope on electrical codes in easy-to-understand language, with a clearly organized flip-chart format that has a durable finish for use in the field.
For builders, building inspectors, or homeowners who want to do some electrical work safely and up to current codes, this is an invaluable tool for understanding what the electrical codes are, why they are important, and how to make sure electrical work is done as safely as current science and common sense allow. There is an amazing amount of useful and easily understandable information in this diminutive manual. --Mark A. Hetts
Book Description
This volume picks up where the original Code Check leaves off and expands on the electrical code section. Code Check Electrical clarifies the principles behind the electrical codes to ensure safety and prevent unnecessary violations. It also explains why electrical codes call for certain specifications.
Customer Reviews:
A Must Have.......2007-02-12
Excellent knowledge base for the DIY and pro. This series of books will show you everything you need to know to do it right the first time and pass those crucial inspections.
I can't follow the format.......2005-12-08
The book is awful. I cannot follow the format and don't understand what they are trying to communicate. There are a few bits of helpful information - but overall this book will do nothing for me. The "cute" drawings and jokes are not appropriate for a reference on electrical codes. And why dedicate so much space the the history of electricity?
Don't waste your money. Go with something professionally prepared. This flipbook was not.
Outdated Material.......2005-09-23
This book is mostly general information. Many of the figures do not identify the wires e.g. hot, neutral, ground. The section on Grounding is many years out of date, and would present an electrical hazard if followed. Most modern homes nowadays use PVC piping thus rendering all this advice on this page useless and dangerous for the layman. Because plumbers use nonconductive material to make connection watertight, using pipes for electrical ground is outright dangerous. Do not use this book because some advice is good, but some is not. Not knowing what advice is the good one may put your life in danger.
Useful in spite of itself.......2004-05-08
If the purchaser actually needs to know the UBC reference numbers, they will need to do some searching, because all too often the Section number cited in the Code Check series isn't correct. I do not have a copy of the International Building Code so I can not judge how the actual references correspond to the citations listed here, but one wonders how the authors could get the UBC citations so wrong, so often.
Because the Code Check series cover residential applications of the Code quite well, I suggest it be used as a study aid for Code Students. Because the surface is designed to be erased many times without leaving ghosts, the student will need to make paper copies. If the sudent goes thru the lists, they should mark down the actual section references on the copy. When the student is finished, he or she will have a good idea of what the code requires for residences and how to use the UBC (or the California Building Code) to locate those requirements in the code.
Fantastic Information & Great Pictures.......2003-06-12
I love the format of this book, simple, easy and I love the playful nature of the illustrations. Never have codes been more easy to understand.
Book Description
On July 26, 1996, the United States Supreme Court nullified the single-sex admissions policy of the Virginia Military Institute, the last all-male military college in America. Capturing the voices of female and male cadets, administrators, faculty, and alumni, Laura Brodie tells the story of the Institute's intense planning for the inclusion of women and the problems and triumphs of the first year of coeducation.
Brodie takes us into the meetings where every aspect of life at VMI was analyzed from the per-spective of a woman's presence: housing, clothing, haircuts, dating, and the infamous "Ratline"—the months of physical exertion, minimal sleep, and verbal harassment to which entering cadets are subjected. Throughout the process the administration's aim was to integrate women successfully without making adjustments to VMI's physical standards or giving up its tradition of education under extreme stress.
No other military college had done so much to prepare. But would it work? With everyone on the Post, we hold our breath as Brodie takes us through Hell Night, the unrelenting months of the Ratline, the fraternization, hazing, and authority issues that arose, the furtive sexual encounters, the resentments and, for the women, the daily difficulties of maintaining a feminine identity in a predominantly male world. Despite the challenges, we see the women ultimately making a place for themselves. Though new problems continue to arise, Brodie's lively and inspiring account makes it clear that VMI's story is an important and timely one of institutional transformation.
Customer Reviews:
Simply trying to make a buck.......2003-02-09
I am a recent graduate of VMI(class of 2000) and I experienced the events covered by the book first hand. I had the fortunate opportunity of being able to experience the corps when it was all-male and then see the transition, so I have a little credibility on the subject. I find Mrs. Brodie's book to be a good example of an outsider's view of a complex, obtuse and guarded military society. She writes of accounts where she portrays the corps of cadets as a whole as knuckle dragging misogynists in a very derogatory way, while making the females out to be some sort of crusader. My main point is this, the wife of the Band Leader (who by the way did not attend VMI either) wrote a book about her outsider's view of what she sees as a black and white story simply to monopolize on the destruction of one of the country's most coveted traditions, the southern all male military school.
A big "apology" for a school hopelessly out of touch.......2002-07-05
While Brodie's book is well written and quite enjoyable to read I do not agree with her conclusions or observations. In essence, this book is a, like a previous reviewer wrote, a PR coup for VMI. Acts of violence and unethical behavior is played down by Brodie as "cadets just messing around and having a good time".
Although Brodie mentions some of the more conservative alumni and their opinions they are not discussed or observed in a very rational fashion. The comments made by alumni that "women should not come to VMI", or "Women who wants to be part of VMI should marry a VMI man" are not seen as examples of a view of society that is lagging behind. It is instead seen by Brodie as a charming antic from the South.
If one wants a more balanced and academic account of VMI going co-ed one should read "Women in the Barracks" instead.
A for effort.......2001-10-31
I give this book three stars for effort but it did not do what I wanted it to do. I was looking for a bit more detail as to life at the "I" and unfortunetly Mrs. Fairchild spent too much time concentrating on the squables between Alumni and faculty. I wanted to know what it was like to be a woman attending this institution for the first time. I also wanted to know what it was like to be a cadet at VMI.
The book is not good as Catherine Minegold's "In Glory's Shadow". Or more to the point Disher's "First Class" a fictional account of the first female class to attend Annapolis -this book covers all four years.
Like someone said this book is really not finished and I am waiting with baited breath for a "brother rat" to re-count her four years at VMI.
Breaking Out.......2001-10-14
Ms. Brodie's handing of a very sensitive subject among VMI alumni was done as well as anyone possibly could have done it. It was written by one who was an "insider" at the Institute, which is imperative in being able to tell this story with a historical perspective. The only way it could have been done better would have been by a graduate - one who could write as clearly as Ms. Brodie does, which is one of it's greatest attributes.
I bought this book at VMI right after it was published and have read it twice, and plan to read it again many times. As a grad, I approached it with an eye open for errors and any misrepresentation of VMI tradition, and I found remarkably little of either. She did a fantastic job covering both sides of the assimilation issue. The fact that she had the backing of the Superintendent, Si Bunting, is proof enough of quality of her work. As Si's brother rat, I know him pretty well, and feel he would have balked on this work big time if he had any misgivings concerning the outcome. I have not talked to him about it, but feel certain that he would agree with the superior rating I give it. Every VMI grad should waste no time acquiring a copy and reading it, and expecting a great experience in doing so. I can't wait for Ms. Brodie's followup which I hope will pick up where this one left off. Great Work!!
Not bad............2001-10-03
I am a VMI alumnus who was a cadet at the time of assimilation (accomodation, as I call it), and someone who was, and still is, against women being at VMI, and I would have to say the Dr. Brodie's book is not bad. She covered almost all the bases and did a very good job of laying everything out on the table and telling it like it is. The book does, however, have somewhat of a sympathetic connotation towards females, and neglects to mention the many instances where double standards were used in punishments (or lack thereof) dished out by the Commandant's Office, among the many other double standards that did and do take place. Overall, though, I would say that the book paints a good picture of what it was like with minimal bias.
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Code Check Building: A Field Guide to the Building Codes
Code Check: HVAC: A Field Guide to Heating and Cooling
Code Check Electrical: An Illustrated Guide to Wiring a Safe House, 4th Edition
Code Check Plumbing Second Edition : A Field Guide to the Plumbing Codes (Code Check Plumbing: A Field Guide to the Plumbing Codes)
Code Check: Electrical: A Guide to Wiring a Safe House
