Architectural Salvage: A Guide to Selecting, Buying and Using Reclaimed Building Materials Hardcover – December 1, 2010

Fast service, book is good.

While this book has some very good technical information about some of the materials and structural elements of houses that are found it salvage yards, it's written for the UK market. Many of the pictures depict architectural elements not commonly found in the US.

I purchased this book with the hope of learning about salvage materials used in the U.S. This book covers English (British) salvage materials,it is not a guide for period pieces from U.S history. I give a one star rating only because the book description does not mention this. I would not have purchased if I'd known it applied to British salvage.

Like other reviews for this book, it's a very nice, helpful book if you are interested in English salvage. It should have been made very clear that it is not pertinent to United States buildings and architecture. And like others, I would not have bought this book if I had known the geographical region to which it was referring. I hope another poor rating will alert others before they put their money into this book.

I have found this book really useful. Its not that large (160pages) so doesnt go into great detail - so if youre a salvage pro you probably wont get that much out of it, but has really practical information about what to look for when buying salvage items like fireplaces, cast iron baths etc.It starts with a brief intro history about the item and uses so you can tell the different period styles, really useful info on the practicalities of what can and cant easily be restored - tips on what to look out for in each type of item and suggested sites for further research, also great for learning some of the proper terms so you dont look like a complete novice when going to buy.Lots of glossy pictures (could probably lose a few and have more details), quotes from real people in the industry - some more useful than others. and list of contacts at the back.Hard back but easily fits into a bag to take with you if mooching round a few yards.but as the other reviewer said its all UK based - still possibly useful information if you are looking for british based items but the contacts will not be that useful. But as i bought it on amazon.co.uk and its printed in the uk, i didnt really expect it to have other countries periods - would be nice to see them but i think make the book to large.all in all gave me confidence to get out there and feel like i at least had the beginnings of knowledge in order to purchase unique pieces for my renovation.

Great price and quick delivery.

Really good informative book