Recommended Tools and Resources for Owner-Builders
Success as an owner-builder depends not just on your skills, but on the resources you leverage. This curated list represents the most valuable books, software, suppliers, and communities to support your project from planning through completion.
Essential Books and References
Construction Fundamentals
"Code Check Complete" by Redwood Kardon and Douglas Hansen
- Price: $25-35
- Why it's essential: Visual guide to building codes with illustrations showing proper techniques
- Best for: Quick reference during construction and inspection prep
- Where to buy: Amazon, construction bookstores
"Graphic Guide to Frame Construction" by Rob Thallon
- Price: $30-40
- Why it's essential: Detailed illustrations of framing techniques and details
- Best for: Understanding structural systems and proper construction methods
- Where to buy: Amazon, building supply stores
"The Visual Handbook of Building and Remodeling" by Charlie Wing
- Price: $35-45
- Why it's essential: Comprehensive visual reference covering all trades
- Best for: Understanding how building systems work together
- Where to buy: Amazon, home centers
"Residential Construction Performance Guidelines" by NAHB
- Price: $40-50
- Why it's essential: Industry standards for acceptable construction quality
- Best for: Setting expectations and resolving quality disputes
- Where to buy: NAHB.org, Amazon
Owner-Builder Specific
"The Owner-Builder Book" by Mark and Elaine Smith
- Price: $25-35
- Why it's essential: Step-by-step guide through entire owner-builder process
- Best for: First-time owner-builders planning their approach
- Where to buy: Amazon, owner-builder schools
"Building Your Own House" by Robert Roskind
- Price: $30-40
- Why it's essential: Detailed technical guide covering all construction phases
- Best for: Technical details and sequence of construction
- Where to buy: Amazon
"Be Your Own House Contractor" by Carl Heldmann
- Price: $20-30
- Why it's essential: Focus on managing subcontractors and budgets
- Best for: Planning and project management strategies
- Where to buy: Amazon, bookstores
"Homing Instinct: Using Your Home to Make Money" by John Talbott
- Price: $25-30
- Why it's essential: Financial analysis of owner-building vs. conventional purchase
- Best for: Financial planning and feasibility analysis
- Where to buy: Amazon
Technical References
"The Builder's Guide to Mixed-Humid Climates" by Joseph Lstiburek (or climate-appropriate version)
- Price: $60-75
- Why it's essential: Building science for your climate zone
- Best for: Understanding moisture management, insulation, and ventilation
- Where to buy: BuildingScience.com, Amazon
- Note: Available for different climate zones
"Building Code Illustrated" by Francis D.K. Ching
- Price: $50-65
- Why it's essential: Visual interpretation of International Residential Code
- Best for: Understanding code requirements with clear illustrations
- Where to buy: Amazon, architecture bookstores
Local Building Code Book
- Price: $50-100 depending on jurisdiction
- Why it's essential: Official code your project must meet
- Best for: Final reference for specific requirements
- Where to buy: ICC.org, local building department
- Note: Confirm which edition your jurisdiction has adopted
"Electrical Basics" by Rick Eggleton (Residential Electrical series)
- Price: $25-35
- Why it's essential: Clear explanations of residential electrical systems
- Best for: Understanding electrical rough-in and planning
- Where to buy: Amazon, electrical supply houses
"Code Check Plumbing & Mechanical" by Redwood Kardon
- Price: $18-25
- Why it's essential: Visual guide to plumbing code requirements
- Best for: Quick reference for rough plumbing layout
- Where to buy: Amazon, plumbing suppliers
Estimating and Costing
"National Building Cost Manual" by Craftsman Book Company
- Price: $80-100 (updated annually)
- Why it's essential: Comprehensive cost data for labor and materials
- Best for: Creating detailed budgets and estimates
- Where to buy: Craftsman-Book.com
- Note: Regional adjustments available
"Means Residential Cost Data" by RSMeans
- Price: $200-250 (updated annually)
- Why it's essential: Industry-standard cost estimating reference
- Best for: Professional-level estimates and feasibility analysis
- Where to buy: RSMeans.com, Amazon
- Note: Expensive but most comprehensive
Best Software and Apps for Owner-Builders
Project Management
CoConstruct
- Price: $99-499/month depending on features
- Best for: Comprehensive construction management with client portal
- Key features: Scheduling, budgeting, change orders, selections, communication
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Managing complex project with many subcontractors
- Website: CoConstruct.com
- Trial: 14-day free trial available
Buildertrend
- Price: $99-499/month
- Best for: All-in-one construction management platform
- Key features: Scheduling, time tracking, daily logs, photo management, financial tracking
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Want single platform for entire project
- Website: Buildertrend.com
- Trial: 14-day free trial available
BuildTools
- Price: $149-349/month
- Best for: Smaller builders and owner-builders needing basic project management
- Key features: Scheduling, budgeting, RFIs, purchase orders
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Need robust features without enterprise pricing
- Website: BuildTools.com
Trello (with construction templates)
- Price: Free - $17.50/month for premium
- Best for: Visual task management and checklists
- Key features: Kanban boards, checklists, file attachments, due dates
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Want simple, visual project tracking
- Website: Trello.com
- Note: Many free construction templates available
Google Sheets/Excel with construction templates
- Price: Free (Google) or included with Office
- Best for: Budget tracking and scheduling if tech-savvy
- Key features: Customizable, shareable, formulas for calculations
- Platform: Web, desktop, mobile
- Worth it if: Want maximum flexibility and control
- Note: Requires creating or adapting templates
Estimating and Budgeting
PlanSwift
- Price: $1,450-1,950 one-time purchase
- Best for: Digital takeoffs from PDF plans
- Key features: Measure materials directly from plans, automatic calculations
- Platform: Windows desktop
- Worth it if: Complex project requiring precise material quantities
- Website: PlanSwift.com
- Trial: Free trial available
Buildertrend Estimating
- Price: Included with Buildertrend subscription
- Best for: Creating estimates that convert to budgets and purchase orders
- Key features: Integrated with project management, cost tracking
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Already using Buildertrend
HomeZada
- Price: Free basic, $9.99/month premium
- Best for: Home inventory and project management for DIYers
- Key features: Budget tracking, maintenance schedules, document storage
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Simple budget tracking needed
- Website: HomeZada.com
Sage 100 Contractor
- Price: $3,000+ (enterprise level)
- Best for: Professional contractors, overkill for owner-builders
- Note: Mentioned for awareness; not recommended for one-time builds
Design and Planning
SketchUp
- Price: Free (basic) or $119/year (Go) or $299/year (Pro)
- Best for: 3D visualization of design and layout
- Key features: Easy 3D modeling, large component library, walkthrough views
- Platform: Web (free version), desktop (paid versions)
- Worth it if: Want to visualize design before building
- Website: SketchUp.com
- Trial: Free version available
RoomSketcher
- Price: Free basic or $49/month premium
- Best for: Floor plans and 2D/3D rendering
- Key features: Drag-and-drop design, automatic measurements, 3D visualization
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Need simple floor planning tools
- Website: RoomSketcher.com
Chief Architect Home Designer
- Price: $99-599 depending on version
- Best for: Comprehensive home design with automated building features
- Key features: Automatic roof design, material lists, construction drawings
- Platform: Windows, Mac
- Worth it if: Designing custom home and need construction drawings
- Website: ChiefArchitect.com
- Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee
Scheduling
Microsoft Project
- Price: $10-30/month subscription or $620 one-time
- Best for: Detailed project schedules with dependencies
- Key features: Gantt charts, critical path, resource allocation
- Platform: Windows desktop, web
- Worth it if: Complex schedule with many interdependencies
- Website: Microsoft.com
Smartsheet
- Price: $9-25/user/month
- Best for: Collaborative scheduling with visual dashboards
- Key features: Gantt charts, resource management, automated alerts
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Need collaborative scheduling tool
- Website: Smartsheet.com
- Trial: 30-day free trial
GanttProject
- Price: Free (open source)
- Best for: Basic Gantt chart scheduling without cost
- Key features: Task dependencies, resource allocation, charts
- Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Worth it if: Budget-conscious and need basic scheduling
- Website: GanttProject.biz
Communication and Documentation
CompanyCam
- Price: $20/month per user
- Best for: Construction photo documentation with GPS and timestamps
- Key features: Automatic organization by project, time-stamped photos, shareable galleries
- Platform: iOS, Android, web
- Worth it if: Need organized photo documentation system
- Website: CompanyCam.com
- Trial: Free trial available
Fieldwire
- Price: Free basic or $39+/user/month
- Best for: Plan viewing and task management in field
- Key features: Plan markups, task assignments, punch lists
- Platform: iOS, Android, web
- Worth it if: Frequently referencing plans on site
- Website: Fieldwire.com
Google Drive
- Price: Free (15GB) or $1.99-9.99/month for more storage
- Best for: Document storage and sharing
- Key features: Cloud storage, sharing, collaboration, version history
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android, desktop
- Worth it if: Need simple document management
- Website: Google.com/drive
Dropbox
- Price: Free (2GB) or $11.99/month (2TB)
- Best for: File synchronization across devices
- Key features: Automatic sync, file sharing, version history
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android, desktop
- Worth it if: Need reliable file sync across multiple devices
- Website: Dropbox.com
Financial Management
QuickBooks Online
- Price: $30-200/month depending on features
- Best for: Comprehensive accounting and financial tracking
- Key features: Invoicing, expense tracking, job costing, tax prep
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Need full accounting for tax purposes and detailed financial tracking
- Website: QuickBooks.Intuit.com
- Trial: 30-day free trial
Wave Accounting
- Price: Free (paid features for payroll and payments)
- Best for: Basic accounting needs on budget
- Key features: Income/expense tracking, invoicing, receipt scanning
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Need accounting features without subscription cost
- Website: WaveApps.com
Mint
- Price: Free
- Best for: Simple budget tracking linked to bank accounts
- Key features: Automatic categorization, budget alerts, spending trends
- Platform: Web, iOS, Android
- Worth it if: Basic expense tracking sufficient
- Website: Mint.com
Recommended Suppliers and Resources
National Building Supply Chains
Home Depot Pro
- Why: Competitive pricing with bulk discounts, ProXtra rewards program
- Best for: General building materials and tools
- Benefits: Delivery scheduling, dedicated account manager for large projects
- Considerations: Quality can vary; inspect lumber carefully
- Website: HomeDepot.com/c/Pro
Lowe's for Pros
- Why: Similar to Home Depot with competitive pricing
- Best for: Alternative pricing and availability options
- Benefits: MVPs Pro Rewards program, delivery, account management
- Considerations: Compare prices between chains
- Website: Lowes.com/l/pro
84 Lumber
- Why: Contractor-focused with package pricing for framing
- Best for: Framing packages, lumber, and major material orders
- Benefits: Estimating services, delivery, better lumber quality than big box
- Considerations: Prices vary by location; negotiate package deals
- Website: 84Lumber.com
Menards (Midwest)
- Why: Competitive pricing with 11% rebate program
- Best for: Budget-conscious builders in Midwest
- Benefits: Regular rebates, contractor discounts
- Considerations: Regional availability limited
- Website: Menards.com
Specialty Suppliers
Ferguson (Plumbing/HVAC)
- Why: Professional-grade plumbing and HVAC supplies
- Best for: Quality fixtures and equipment with contractor pricing
- Benefits: Knowledgeable staff, commercial accounts available
- Website: Ferguson.com
Grainger (Tools/Equipment/Safety)
- Why: Industrial supplier with everything from tools to safety equipment
- Best for: Quality tools, safety gear, and equipment
- Benefits: Fast delivery, business accounts, wide selection
- Website: Grainger.com
Fastenal (Hardware/Fasteners)
- Why: Industrial fastener and supply company
- Best for: Bulk fasteners, hardware, safety equipment
- Benefits: No minimum orders, local branches, delivery
- Website: Fastenal.com
Sherwin-Williams (Paint)
- Why: Professional-grade paint with contractor pricing
- Best for: Quality paint and finishes
- Benefits: Contractor discounts (30-40%), color matching, delivery
- Considerations: Open contractor account before purchasing
- Website: Sherwin-Williams.com
Local Lumber Yards
- Why: Often better quality and service than big box stores
- Best for: Higher-grade lumber, specialty items, expert advice
- Benefits: Delivery, credit terms, better selection
- Considerations: Build relationship early for better pricing
- How to find: Search "lumber yard near me" and visit in person
Online Resources
Contractor Pricing on Amazon Business
- Why: Bulk pricing and business features
- Best for: Tools, hardware, and specialty items
- Benefits: Free shipping, competitive pricing, fast delivery
- Considerations: Verify seller ratings and return policies
- Website: Business.Amazon.com
Direct Manufacturers (when possible)
- Examples: Andersen windows, Kohler fixtures, etc.
- Why: Sometimes better pricing than retail
- Best for: High-cost items like windows, doors, appliances
- Benefits: Product knowledge, warranty support
- Considerations: May require local dealer purchase
Online Communities and Support
Forums and Discussion Boards
Contractor Talk (contractortalk.com)
- Focus: Professional contractors discussing technical topics
- Value for owner-builders: Search archives for specific technical questions
- Activity level: Very active, thousands of discussions
- Best for: Technical problem-solving and product recommendations
- Note: Be upfront about being owner-builder; some pros are helpful, others less so
Fine Homebuilding Breaktime Forum (finehomebuilding.com)
- Focus: High-quality residential construction techniques
- Value for owner-builders: Detailed discussions of building science and methods
- Activity level: Moderate, quality over quantity
- Best for: Understanding proper building techniques and details
GreenBuildingAdvisor Q&A (greenbuildingadvisor.com)
- Focus: Energy-efficient and sustainable building
- Value for owner-builders: Expert advice on insulation, HVAC, and building science
- Activity level: Very active with expert contributors
- Best for: Energy efficiency questions and building science
- Cost: Some content requires subscription ($50-80/year)
Reddit r/Homebuilding
- Focus: Owner-builders and custom home builders
- Value for owner-builders: Peer support and experience sharing
- Activity level: Very active, growing community
- Best for: General questions and shared experiences
- Website: Reddit.com/r/Homebuilding
Reddit r/HomeImprovement
- Focus: DIY home improvement and construction
- Value for owner-builders: Large community with diverse experience
- Activity level: Extremely active
- Best for: Specific technique questions and troubleshooting
- Website: Reddit.com/r/HomeImprovement
Educational Resources
Building Science Corporation (buildingscience.com)
- Focus: Building science, moisture management, energy efficiency
- Value: Free articles and guides from industry experts
- Best for: Understanding how buildings should work
- Cost: Free articles, consulting services available
JLC (Journal of Light Construction) Online (jlconline.com)
- Focus: Professional construction techniques and products
- Value: Detailed how-to articles and product reviews
- Best for: Learning professional techniques
- Cost: Free articles, premium content requires subscription
Fine Homebuilding (finehomebuilding.com)
- Focus: High-quality residential construction
- Value: Expert articles, videos, and how-to guides
- Best for: Detailed technique instruction
- Cost: Free articles, subscription for full access ($50-80/year)
YouTube Channels
- Essential Craftsman: Fundamental construction techniques
- Matt Risinger: Building science and advanced techniques
- Larry Haun (archive): Classic framing instruction
- Home RenoVision DIY: Detailed how-to for various trades
- This Old House: General construction and renovation
- Cost: Free
Local Resources
Owner-Builder Classes
- Where to find: Community colleges, owner-builder centers
- Value: Hands-on instruction and local code information
- Cost: $200-1,000 depending on program length
- Best for: First-time builders wanting structured education
- Examples: Housewright Program (NC), Owner Builder Center (CA)
Local Building Inspectors
- Value: Free advice on code interpretation and requirements
- How to access: Visit building department, ask questions during plan review
- Best for: Understanding local code applications
- Tip: Visit during slow times; be respectful of their time
Local Home Builders Association
- Value: Networking, education events, supplier connections
- Cost: $200-500/year membership
- Best for: Building supplier relationships and staying current
- Website: Search "[your city] home builders association"
Tool Libraries and Makerspaces
- Value: Access to expensive tools without purchasing
- Cost: $50-200/year membership typically
- Best for: Specialty tools needed for short periods
- How to find: Search "tool library [your city]"
Essential Subscriptions Worth the Cost
JLC Online Premium - $80/year
- Why: Professional construction techniques and details
- ROI: Learn techniques that save thousands in mistakes
Fine Homebuilding All-Access - $80/year
- Why: Comprehensive how-to library and expert advice
- ROI: Detailed instruction prevents costly errors
SketchUp Shop - $119/year
- Why: Visualize design decisions before building
- ROI: Prevent design regrets and change orders
QuickBooks Online - $360-600/year
- Why: Organized finances for tax deduction tracking
- ROI: Proper tax deductions likely exceed subscription cost
CompanyCam - $240/year
- Why: Organized photo documentation
- ROI: Valuable for insurance claims, warranty issues, future reference
Free Resources That Deliver Value
- Building department office hours and consultations
- YouTube construction channels
- Library books (check out expensive references for temporary use)
- Google Sheets templates for budget tracking
- Manufacturer installation instructions and details
- Building code online resources (most jurisdictions publish adopted codes)
- Energy Star construction guides
- EPA lead-safe and asbestos resources
Building Your Resource Library
Start Here (Budget: $300-500)
- Local building code book ($75)
- "Code Check Complete" ($30)
- "Graphic Guide to Frame Construction" ($35)
- "The Owner-Builder Book" ($30)
- Climate-appropriate building science guide ($70)
- Basic project management software (free Trello or Google Sheets)
- Free YouTube education
- Local building department consultation (free)
Intermediate Level (Additional $500-1,000)
- National cost estimating manual ($90)
- Specialized trade reference books ($150)
- SketchUp subscription ($119/year)
- JLC or Fine Homebuilding subscription ($80/year)
- Construction management software trial ($0)
- Owner-builder class ($300)
Advanced/Complex Projects (Additional $1,000+)
- Professional cost estimating software ($1,500)
- Construction management platform ($1,200/year)
- QuickBooks or accounting software ($400/year)
- Professional consultations as needed (varies)
- Multiple trade reference books ($300)
Getting the Most Value
Prioritize Based on Your Project
- Small, simple build: Focus on books and free resources
- Complex custom home: Invest in software and professional references
- First-time builder: Prioritize education (classes, subscriptions)
- Experienced DIYer: Focus on project management tools
Use Free Trials Wisely
- Sign up for software trials when you'll actually use them (during active planning)
- Test multiple options during planning phase
- Make decision before trial ends
- Only subscribe to tools you'll use throughout project
Leverage Library Resources
- Check out expensive reference books rather than buying
- Access online databases and technical resources
- Use meeting rooms for subcontractor meetings
- Scan/photocopy needed sections (within copyright limits)
Build Supplier Relationships
- Visit supplier showrooms and talk to experts
- Attend contractor appreciation events
- Open accounts early to establish relationship
- Compare pricing across multiple suppliers
- Ask about package pricing for large orders
Consulting Services vs. DIY Resources
Sometimes professional consulting delivers better ROI than self-education:
Consider professional help when:
- Stakes are high (structural decisions, major systems)
- Code interpretation is unclear
- Subcontractor disputes arise
- Design decisions have expensive implications
- Time is critical (delays cost money)
DIY research sufficient for:
- General construction sequencing
- Basic material selection
- Standard construction techniques
- Budget planning and templates
- Communication strategies
Get Expert Guidance When You Need It
While these resources provide tremendous value, they can't replace experience-based judgment for complex decisions. Our consulting services complement your self-education by providing:
- Personalized advice for your specific situation
- Code interpretation for your jurisdiction
- Review of your plans, budgets, and schedules
- Subcontractor evaluation and negotiation support
- Real-time problem solving during construction
to maximize your success while minimizing expensive mistakes.
Related Resources
- Essential Tools Guide - Physical tools you'll need
- Project Checklists - Organize your project
- Templates and Forms - Free project management documents
- Construction Glossary - Understand technical terminology
- Start Your Project - Begin planning with these resources