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Q: When building a super-insulated house, one of the ways to increase insulation levels in the wall assembly is to increase the thickness of the wall. But instead of using double-wall framing, would it be okay to frame walls with I-joists?
Our annual pick of products designed to help you work smarter, faster, and better.
T-shaped beams fabricated from a standard I-beam help uncramp a basement space.
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Q: Can finger-jointed studs be used for wall plates and short window and door headers?
Simple framed walls support the treads and act as forms for bending the rails and stringers.
These common errors could lead to expensive callbacks later on.
Rafter tails and gable overhangs transform an otherwise plain-looking exterior.
Complex roofs with hips and dormers can be assembled quickly using these energy-efficient panels.
By breaking the work into simple tasks, three men get one job done as quickly as possible.
Inspecting the frame before drywall ensures the trim will look its best, and can save a bundle in repairs.
Following the 2004 hurricane season, Florida-based Mercedes Homes paired up with researchers at the DOE's Building America program to design and build a truly hurricane-resistant home. But as researchers and builders have come to understand only too well, a home that provides complete protection...
This method uses calculations and layout shortcuts to speed production.
Rough framing and routers; curved wood gutter
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Q. When a floor is covered by wall-to-wall carpeting, is it possible to fix squeaks without taking up the rug to get to the subfloor?
This quick, accurate method prevents problems with the framing and finishes that follow.
PLS90E 90-degree layout laser; knives; heavy equipment
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Unnecessary roof venting; dangers of thin plywood paneling; no freebies; more
Wainscoting for wavy walls; homemade dispensers
Testing spray-foam jobs; ridge beams and collar ties; safety reminder; more
Buy the right tools, make sure material's there when you need it, and break the job down into simple tasks.