Posted: 1/22/2010 10:48:45 AM EDT
| Has anybody read or seen Joel Skousen's book titled "The Secure Home"? Is it worth the 45 bucks? |
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there are 9 reviews here: http://www.amazon.com/Secure-Home-Joel-Skousen/dp/1568610556 ar-jedi |
| I've read it and enjoyed it. He doesn't emphasize underground bunkers enough; and I don't know if his idea of rocks between wall boards is adequate. I wish the "Box o' Truth" would do a segment on it. He does appropriately emphasize choosing the right location first and foremost. Since most people are not building there home new, it may be less useful. If you are building from scratch, you still need something that is ultimately marketable as this will be most people's main investment. So, if you use all of his suggestions, you'll end up with a house that is not as marketable. It might be wiser if you simply construct an underground bunker (perhaps with a well and generator room) when you lay the foundation, then make it mostly a conventional house. You can always call it a Tornado shelter or Earthquake shelter or Hurricane shelter, depending on your location, when you go to sell. Plus, this could be added on to existing homes fairly easily. I doubt it's common enough to find at most libraries; but, if you could find it, that would be the way to go. |
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It is a good book. He has some good ideas that are unique and helpful. Mostly, like mentioned, it is useful for new construction. The book is a little outdated in some sections though so keep that in mind. Also some topics covered in the book are reviewed on this board from time to time.
The local library had a copy through inter-library loan so I didn't buy it when I read it. I think $45 is a bit much for a paperback even though it is a fairly large book. |
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I have it.
It has a good amount of good ideas. I think of it as a reference book, I keep going back to it to read and re-read sections. He has another book I also have called: How To Implement A High Security Shelter in the Home That is also good. and deal with what the title says. |