11 Best Construction Project Management Books

Effective project management is crucial for successful construction projects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the industry, investing in knowledge through books can provide valuable insights.

In this blog, we present the top 10 construction project management books that cover essential topics such as planning, scheduling, risk management, and team leadership.

Our Top Picks For You

Table of Contents

11 Best Construction Project Management Books For You

  1. Construction Jobsite Management – Best Jobsite construction project management book for managers & contractors 
  1. Building Construction: Principles, Materials, and Systems – 2nd Best construction management books for beginners
  1. Smith, Currie & Hancock’s Common Sense Construction Law – Best Books Construction Management To Understand Laws in Simple & Easy Manner 
  1. Managing the Construction Process – Best Book On Construction Management to Master Estimating, Scheduling, and Project Control
  1. Construction Management JumpStart – Best Construction Management Books For Beginners Wants To Master Basics
  2. Foundations of Real Estate Financial Modelling – Best Project Management Construction Books Every Manager & Contractors Must Read 
  1. Printreading for Residential and Light Commercial Construction – Master Residential Construction Process & Printreading – Best residential construction management books
  1. Elevating Construction Superintendents – Best Construction Project Management books for Superintendents 
  1. Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book – Best Cheat Sheet Books For All Construction Managers
  1. The Lean Builder: A Builder’s Guide to Applying Lean Tools in the Field – Every Construction Builder & Manager Read Once 
  1. Think and Grow Rich: THE 21st CENTURY EDITION – Every Construction Field Person Must Read Or Listen Once ( Life-Changing)

Let’s deep dive into it!

1. Construction Jobsite Management – Best Jobsite construction project management book for managers & contractors 

Construction Jobsite Management

The newly updated Fourth Edition of “Construction Jobsite Management” is a vital resource for managers and contractors in the field of construction project management.

This comprehensive book covers all aspects of the discipline from a contractor’s perspective, providing in-depth insights into the responsibilities of project managers, construction superintendents, and construction engineers.

With a strong emphasis on job site personnel activities, the book offers proven procedures and practical techniques for effective project management from start to finish.

Written in clear and concise language, it serves as an essential introduction to the realities of construction job site management, making it indispensable for professionals in the field.

2. Building Construction: Principles, Materials, and Systems – 2nd Best Book On Construction Management 

Building Construction

“Building Construction: Principles, Materials, and Systems” stands as one of the most highly regarded books on construction management at the university level.

Its comprehensive and visually engaging approach serves as an exceptional introduction to construction methods and materials.

Recognizing the need for a solid foundation in the principles and science of construction, the book equips designers and constructors to navigate the rapidly evolving built environment successfully.

With a focus on resilience and sustainability, it prepares professionals to meet the challenges of urbanization worldwide.

The updated Third Edition incorporates the latest advancements and addresses common errors, presenting over a thousand new end-of-chapter problems to enhance comprehension.

By providing a definitive understanding of fundamental concepts before delving into more intricate topics, this text facilitates effective learning.

Through its meticulous organization and original illustrations, it serves as an invaluable resource for students and practitioners seeking to excel in building construction and design.

3. Smith, Currie & Hancock’s Common Sense Construction Law – Best Books Construction Management To Understand Laws in Simple & easy manner 

mith Currie & Hancock's Common Sense Construction Law

Smith, Currie & Hancock’s Common Sense Construction Law” is the ultimate guide for construction professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of construction law in a straightforward and accessible manner.

This extensively updated and expanded edition covers the latest developments in construction law, equipping readers with the knowledge needed to understand and comply with the legal principles and regulations that govern the industry.

From risk avoidance and mitigation to addressing legal considerations in various project delivery systems, this practical guide provides a comprehensive introduction to key legal topics affecting the construction industry.

It explores emerging project delivery methods such as Public-Private Partnerships (P3) and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and delves into digital tools and processes like Electronically Stored Information (ESI).

Filled with valuable resources such as checklists, sample forms, and concise summaries for each chapter, this book serves as an essential companion for construction firm managers, contractors, subcontractors, architects, and engineers.

It is equally beneficial for students pursuing studies in construction management, civil engineering, and architecture.

With its clear and concise approach, “Smith, Currie & Hancock’s Common Sense Construction Law” empowers professionals to navigate legal complexities with confidence and expertise.

4. Managing the Construction Process – Best Book On Construction Management to Master Estimating, Scheduling, and Project Control

Managing the Construction Process

Managing the Construction Process: Estimating, Scheduling, and Project Control” is the ultimate book for mastering the essential skills of estimating, scheduling, and project control in construction management.

In its comprehensive Fourth Edition, this text offers a well-rounded exploration of the entire construction management industry, combining theoretical foundations with practical applications.

Students and professionals alike will benefit from its in-depth coverage, providing the technical expertise necessary to effectively manage construction projects from start to finish.

With a focus on current industry practices, this book serves as a valuable reference and equips readers with the knowledge and tools required to navigate the complexities of the construction industry.

5.Construction Management JumpStart – Best Construction Management Books For Beginners Wants To Master Basics 

Construction Management JumpStart

Construction Management JumpStart” stands as the best introductory book for beginners aiming to master the basics of construction management.

This bestselling guide offers a comprehensive overview of the field, providing a step-by-step walkthrough of each project stage from the perspective of a construction manager.

With authoritative coverage of fundamental concepts and practices, readers gain a clear understanding of the manager’s role and responsibilities.

The updated third edition reflects the current environment and industry best practices, ensuring its relevance in an evolving construction industry.

New chapters delve into the pre-construction phase, team management, and sustainability, while challenging review questions reinforce key concepts and facilitate practical application.

By bridging traditional project management techniques with industry-specific standards and regulations, this book equips readers with essential skills in estimating costs, administering contracts, managing operations, monitoring performance, assessing risks, planning, scheduling, and utilizing Building Information Modeling software.

Whether you are a student or a beginner in the field, “Construction Management JumpStart” is the ultimate guide to building a strong foundation in construction management principles and practices.

6. Foundations of Real Estate Financial Modelling – Best Project Management Construction Books Every Manager & Contractors Must Read 

Foundations of Real Estate Financial Modelling

“Foundations of Real Estate Financial Modelling” is an essential read for managers and contractors in the construction industry.

This second edition offers a comprehensive and scalable approach to pro forma modelling for real estate projects.

The book begins by introducing the basics of real estate finance theory before providing a step-by-step guide to constructing financial models using Excel.

It introduces the innovative financial metric P(Gain), which quantifies the probability of a Return on Capital, a crucial factor in investment decisions.

With new and enhanced chapters covering various topics, including interest rates, amortization, development modules, and risk quantification, this edition equips readers with valuable skills and knowledge.

The inclusion of problem sets, case studies, and a companion website further enhances the learning experience.

Whether in the classroom or the workplace, “Foundations of Real Estate Financial Modelling” is a valuable resource for mastering real estate finance and constructing effective financial models.

7. Printreading for Residential and Light Commercial Construction – Master Residential Construction Process & Printreading 

Printreading for Residential and Light Commercial Construction

“Printreading for Residential and Light Commercial Construction” is an indispensable resource for mastering the residential construction process and print reading skills.

This book immerses readers in authentic print reading experiences, utilizing contemporary prints that are applicable to various trades such as carpentry, electrical work, mechanical installations, and general building construction.

It covers a wide range of projects including single and multifamily dwellings, mixed-use buildings, and light commercial structures.

The latest edition features updated coverage on building codes, the CSI MasterFormat®, LEED® certification, and green building technology, ensuring readers stay up-to-date with industry standards.

Additionally, the book includes specifications and construction procedures for real projects like a multistory veterinary centre, a Brick-Veneer Residence, and a Wendy’s® Restaurant.

With a dedicated chapter on quantity takeoff, this book also introduces readers to the principles and techniques of print reading for estimating construction quantities.

Whether you are a student or a professional in the construction industry, “Printreading for Residential and Light Commercial Construction” equips you with the necessary skills to interpret construction prints and navigate the residential construction process effectively.

8. Elevating Construction Superintendents – Best Construction Project Management Books for Superintendents 

Elevating Construction Superintendents

“Elevating Construction Superintendents – The Art of the Builder” is the ultimate book for construction superintendents, offering comprehensive training and guidance for excelling in their roles.

Authored with the aim of bringing respect back to field positions, this book emphasizes the importance of proper training and the adoption of lean principles.

It fills a void in the market, focusing specifically on the art and form of being a superintendent and providing actionable steps for assistant superintendents to become true leaders in the field.

With a focus on back-to-basics fundamental attributes, this book equips superintendents with the knowledge and skills needed to elevate their performance and bring excellence to every construction project.

9. Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book – Best Cheat Sheet Books For All Construction Managers

Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book

The Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book is the go-to cheat sheet for construction managers, offering a concise and comprehensive reference for all project management skills.

The second edition includes updates on CDM regulations, contract forms, emerging technologies like BIM, Brexit implications, procurement trends, and ethics.

Covering project management activities in the order they occur, this pocket-sized guide is essential for project managers, construction managers, architects, and quantity surveyors.

10. The Lean Builder: A Builder’s Guide to Applying Lean Tools in the Field – Every Construction Builder & Manager Read Once 

The Lean Builder

“The Lean Builder: A Builder’s Guide to Applying Lean Tools in the Field” is a must-read for construction builders and managers.

Through the story of young superintendent Sam Brooks, readers learn about the common challenges in construction and how to overcome them using Lean Construction tools and processes.

From daily huddles to visual communication, managing constraints to pull planning, this book covers essential techniques for improving project operations and reducing waste.

With practical applications and insights into the “Eight Wastes” and the Last Planner System™, this guide equips builders with valuable skills for success in the field.

11. Think and Grow Rich: THE 21st CENTURY EDITION – Every Construction Field Person Must Read Or Listen Once ( Life-Changing)

Think and Grow Rich

“Think and Grow Rich: THE 21st CENTURY EDITION” is a life-changing book that every person in the construction field should read or listen to.

Drawing on the experiences of the wealthiest and most successful individuals throughout history, Napoleon Hill provides invaluable guidance on achieving lasting success and prosperity.

This updated edition includes commentaries and examples from contemporary successful figures.

By mastering the principles outlined in this powerful book, readers can become the masters of their own destinies and achieve unprecedented success.

FAQ’s

What are the best books for beginners in construction management?

“Construction Management JumpStart” is an excellent choice for beginners looking to master the basics of construction project management.

Are there books specifically focused on construction project scheduling and planning?

“Managing the Construction Process” is a top pick for those interested in in-depth guidance on estimating, scheduling, and project control.

Which books are best for learning about construction risk management and safety?

“Smith, Currie & Hancock’s Common Sense Construction Law” is an invaluable resource to understand construction laws, including aspects related to risk management and safety, in a simple and easy manner.

Can you suggest books on advanced topics in construction management for experienced professionals?

“Elevating Construction Superintendents” is an excellent choice for experienced professionals, particularly superintendents, looking to advance their knowledge and leadership skills.

What are the top books for preparing for construction management certification exams?

While not directly related to certification, “Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book” is a valuable cheat sheet for all construction managers and can be useful for exam preparation by providing quick reference material.

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