The new manual covers such topics as roof drainage systems, decks, chimneys, windows, doors, and ledges. The 130-page guide presents details and explanations based on and designed for low-rise residential buildings, up to three stories, that are used as single-family and multi-family dwellings.

In addition to generic detail drawings, design data located in certain sections and the appendixes will help users adapt the drawings to local climate and project conditions. According to SMACNA, carefully examining the information along with the local climate conditions will enable manual users to select the proper details for practically any residential architectural sheet metal application.