“DIY and Home Maintenance for Dummies All-in-One” is exactly what its name suggests, a comprehensive home improvement guide for people with no prior DIY experience. Published by John Wiley and Sons in 2005, this book has received a wealth of positive reviews from publications such as ‘Good Woodworking’, ‘Traditional Woodworking’ and ‘Boys Toys’.

The book’s main author is Jeff Howell, who has a list of previous titles to his name, including “The ‘Sunday Telegraph’ Guide to Looking After Your Property 2004” and “The Rising Damp Myth”. Here, he is also joined by several other respected authors and experts in the DIY field.

From fine woodworking to installing underfloor heating, “DIY And Home Maintenance for Dummies” covers every aspect of home improvement. There is also plenty of helpful advice on fitting bathroom furniture, bathroom sinks and shower enclosures. Plumbing is explained clearly and in a simple way that anyone could understand.

A point of caution however, this book, as the title suggests, really is for someone with little or no knowledge of DIY. Every task is described at the most basic level possible, so anyone with even a smattering of expertise would do better to look elsewhere.

Having said that, “DIY and Home Maintenance for Dummies” has been a welcome addition to the ‘Home-Improvement Manual’ market, as there are very few, if any, other titles that have as much appeal to the complete beginner. The informal and accessible style of the content makes this book an enjoyable read for anyone interested in carrying out their own home improvements.