Walls

• Transit Tips (Subscriber content)

  A finish carpentry foreman explains how to use a transit for fast, accurate layout of framing and finish work.

   

• Layout Tricks for Rough Openings (Subscriber content)

  As any finish sub knows, careful framing smooths the installation of drywall and trim. Follow these guidelines for fast, accurate framing of doors, windows, stairs, and fireplaces.

   

• Brushing Up on Water-Based Paints (Subscriber content)

  Federal regulation of VOCs has made the change to latex finishes inevitable. A painting contractor explains how to get the same quality and performance from water-based paints that you were accustomed to with oil-based products.

   

• Building With Style: Graceful Transitions (Subscriber content)

  Designing transitions between rooms

   

• Q&A: Vapor-Retarder Paints

  Q: Do "vapor-retarder paints" really work? Can I rely on them as the sole vapor barrier in an old house? If so, can you recommend some brand names?

   

• Building with Style: Trimless Detailing - What's Missing? (Subscriber content)

  Dress up drywall with wood trim

   

• Frame-and-Panel Wainscot (Subscriber content)

  Paneled wall treatments require careful layout and methodical installation. A veteran carpenter and cabinetmaker tells how.

   

• Interior Trim Tips (Subscriber content)

  A finish carpentry foreman shares his strategies for producing high-quality finish jobs on time and on budget.

   

• Repairing Plaster Walls and Ceilings (Subscriber content)

  Hairline cracks in old plaster require more than just forcing in some spackle. A plaster repair specialist describes his techniques.

   

• Detail: A Barrel-Vault Ceiling (Subscriber content)

  How to build a nonstructural vault using stock materials and simple techniques.