Roofing Reference Books List

If you spend enough time doing something, and you learn how to do it well, you can recognize when someone else is good at it, too. These books were written by people who really know what they're talking about. We keep them in our roofing reference library. We rely on them, refer to them, and recommend them.

  1. Architectural Graphic Standards (Ramsey/Sleeper Architectural Graphic Standards Series) 12th Edition - American Institute of Architects (Author), Dennis J. Hall (Editor)
 
  1. Architectural Sheet Metal Manual 7th Edition - SMACNA
 
  1. A Roof Cutter's Secrets (to Framing the Custom Home) 3rd Edition by William Holladay.

One of the best books out there on roof framing. Requires a high level of comfort with math. Not particularly geared toward beginners, but the book is incredibly useful and thorough.

 
 
  1. Building Construction Illustrated 6th Edition by Francis D. K. Ching
 
  1. Construction Waterproofing Handbook 2nd Edition by Michael T. Kubal
 
  1. Dictionary of Architecture and Construction 4th Edition by Cyril M. Harris
 
 
  1. Handbook of Adhesives and Sealants (McGraw-Hill Handbooks) 2nd Edition by Edward M. Petrie
 
 
 
 
  1. Manual of Below-Grade Waterproofing 2nd Edition by Justin Henshell
 
  1. Manual of Low-Slope Roof Systems 4th Edition by C.W. Griffin and Richard Fricklas

Every property manager, building owner, roofing contractor, and roof inspector involved with "flat" roofs should have a copy of this book. It is a superb introduction to the various types of low-slope roofing that are in use today, as well as being a constantly useful reference, with tables, charts, and information about things from roof insulation to wind issues to roof inspections.

 
 
 
  1. NRCA Guidelines for Asphalt Shingle Roof Systems - National Roofing Contractors Association
 
  1. NRCA's Pocket Guide to Safety - National Roofing Contractors Association
NRCA Pocket Guide to Safety Image.jpg
  1. NRCA Roofing Manual—2019 Boxed Set - National Roofing Contractors Association
 
  1. NRCA Safety Manual Third Edition - National Roofing Contractors Association
 
  1. Principles of Home Inspection: Roofing by Carson Dunlop and Associates
 
  1. Principles of Home Inspection: Systems and Standards 3rd Edition by Carson Dunlop and Associates
 
  1. Problems in Roofing Design by B. Harrison McCampbell
 
  1. Roofing Design and Practice by Stephen L. Patterson and Dr. Madan Mehta
 
  1. Roofing Failures by Carl G. Cash
 
 
  1. Science and Technology of Traditional and Modern Roofing Systems by Heshmat O. Laaly

OK, this one came out in the early 90's, but for a long time it was the be-all and end-all of roofing reference books. These books are huge, and even though some of the information is outdated now, they are still full of valuable information. Some things don't really change.

 
 
 
 
  1. Technical Notes on Brick Construction – Brick Institute of America

Note: No real reason to buy this one. All the technical notes are available on the Brick Institute’s website. See here: Technical Notes on Brick Construction.

  1. Visual Handbook of Building and Remodeling 3rd Edition by Charlie Wing