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Product Description
Learn to Frame from the Legend: The Complete Course in Residential Framing
If you want to learn how to build a house, you learn from Larry Haun. The Very Efficient Carpenter is more than just a manual; it is a masterclass in the art of production framing. Haun’s philosophy is simple: don’t waste a motion, don’t waste a nail, and build it to last.
Whether you are a savvy DIY homeowner looking to tackle a custom build or an aspiring professional aiming to boost your job site productivity, this book provides the blueprint for success. Haun breaks down the complex process of framing into manageable, step-by-step segments. You will learn the secrets of fluent floor construction, the "stack and rack" method of wall assembly, and the complex geometry of roof rafters and stairs.
Mastering these professional techniques doesn't just result in a sturdier home; it results in significant cost savings. By learning to work with the efficiency of a production pro, you minimize mistakes and maximize your most valuable resource: time. Join the thousands of builders who have used Larry Haun’s wisdom to build their futures, one stud at a time.
Product details
- Publisher : Taunton
- Publication date : October 1, 1998
- Edition : 20th
- Language : English
- Print length : 224 pages
- ISBN-10 : 156158326X
- ISBN-13 : 978-1561583263
- Item Weight : 1.4 pounds
- Dimensions : 8.05 x 0.6 x 10 inches
FAQ for "The Very Efficient Carpenter"
1. Who is Larry Haun, and why is this book a "must-have"?
Larry Haun was a legendary production framer with over 35 years of experience. He is famous for his ability to frame houses with incredible speed and precision. This book distills his "flow" into a step-by-step guide that is considered the "bible" of residential framing.
2. Is this book suitable for a beginner with no framing experience?
Yes. Haun starts with the basics—tools, plans, and lumber selection. It is designed to take a novice and give them the foundational skills and confidence to frame a basic house or manage a major renovation.
3. Does the book cover modern building codes?
While first published in 1998, the fundamental physics and techniques of framing (geometry, layout, and efficiency) remain the same. While you should always check your local 2024 or 2018 IRC for current specific code requirements, Haun’s methods for "cutting and dropping" remain the gold standard for efficiency.
4. What specific framing tasks are covered?
The guide is comprehensive, covering:
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Floor joisting and sheathing
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Wall layout, assembly, and raising
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Roof framing (Gable, Hip, Valley, and Trusses)
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Stair building and installation
5. Can I save money on my home build by reading this?
Absolutely. The book focuses on "Production Framing," which is the art of minimizing wasted movement and materials. By following Haun’s techniques, DIYers can save thousands in labor and material waste.
6. Does the book explain how to read blueprints?
Yes. Haun includes a section on plans and codes to ensure you understand how to translate a 2D drawing into a 3D structure.
7. How does this book help someone looking to start a career in construction?
Professional builders value speed and accuracy. Mastering the "Haun method" allows an aspiring carpenter to work much faster than those using traditional, slower methods, making them a high-value asset on any job site.
8. Are there many illustrations or photos?
Yes, the book is highly visual. It features clear photos and detailed drawings that demonstrate exactly where to stand, how to hold the saw, and how to nail components together for maximum strength and speed.
9. Does it cover complex roof types?
Yes. Beyond the standard gable roof, Haun provides instructions for more complex geometry, including hip and valley roofs, which are often the most difficult parts for a carpenter to master.
10. Is this 20th Edition updated?
This edition maintains the classic techniques that made the book famous while ensuring the print quality and diagrams are clear for the modern reader. It remains the most requested version of Haun's work.

