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This thorough approach to office organization will help you manage your paperwork, keep an eye on costs, and ultimately run a more profitable business.
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Why waste time running back to the shop when you can do precise millwork on site? A kitchen remodeler describes the setups that work for him.
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For repairing concrete foundation cracks, you can’t beat epoxy for a strong, permanent bond. Here’s how to select the right materials and install them properly.
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A remodeler puts a selection of finish nailers to the test at the job site and reports on the results.
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This builder’s common sense system for shop-built wall systems dramatically increases efficiency and lowers costs.
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Whether it’s framing lumber or finish flooring, wood shrinks and swells, causing problems in your finish work. Here’s how to prevent callbacks.
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A chimney specialist shows how to install flashing that will prevent leaks for the life of the chimney.
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A master tilesetter shows how to incorporate glass block into a tiled bath.
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An architect discusses the essential ingredients of a well-planned kitchen: cabinet and appliance dimensions, lay-out variations, storage schemes, and dining options.
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Our K&B reviewer finds some good values amid the glitz and glitter of this year’s industry show.
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A well-planned punchout procedure will ensure you exit the job gracefully — and get the last check.
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Illinois builder Mike Hoch explains why he uses engineered members for rafters and offers tips on handling, cutting, and installation.
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A veteran tile contractor describes his favorite pan materials and techniques for a durable, leak-free job.
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There’s more to buying concrete than specifying compressive strength. Understanding cement types admixures, and batch-plant basics will help you get the right mix for the job.
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A third-generation structural repair contractor tells how to diagnose and fix rotted sills and joist ends.
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As skilled labor grows scarcer, reliance on subs is increasing. To protect yourself from legal liability and tax penalties, make sure you follow these guidelines.
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Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
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They’re pretty to look at, but they may not last as long as expected unless installed properly and maintained.
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An engineer who regularly specs flitchplates for residential remodeling projects takes a look at their pros and cons.
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A professional arbitrator gives tips on how to prepare a fair but thorough contract.
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A remodeler experienced in accessibility explains how to design handicapped access ramps.
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A demonstration house in Montana proves it’s possible — and affordable — to build a conventional house with resource-efficient materials.
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For a profitable sale, buy at a good price, do quality work — and hope the Tarot cards fall your way.
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Joining new construction to old requires good detective work. Here are some pointers for the trouble spots.
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This primer will help you identify the insects that cause damage to houses and specify the right treatment.
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Even many “energy-efficient” homes lose heat through overlooked gaps in the building’s thermal envelope. Here are the most common weak spots and how to fix them.
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For interior finish work to look its best, the framing must be accurate. A finish carpenter tells where to take special care.
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In most cases, the more worker on site, the less efficient the crew. A field production manager tells how to get more out of less.
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A heating engineer with a number of radiant slabs under his belt offers practical guidelines for successful slab-on-grade installations.
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Most customers experience stress during a major remodel. Here are some tips for helping your customers.
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An energy specialist tells what features to look for when selecting a setback thermostat.
Q: What is the best way to tie a new block addition into an existing block building?
Q: We have been asked to bid on a home in upstate New York that has a "hot roof." Are moisture problems likely in this unvented roof assembly?
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Q: What kind of adhesive should I use to bond CCA-treated decking to treated joists?
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Q: There seem to be a lot of products on the market that solve problems with leaky basements. Some are for "dampproofing" and others for "waterproofing." What is the difference?
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Q: We are getting a callback on drywall screws in a bathroom that are showing through the paint and getting darker with age. What might be causing this?
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Q: On elevated decks, the redwood decking often causes black streaks on the joists below. How can we prevent this?
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Q: We are getting a lot of jobs with Mansard-type roofs. The roof covering is concrete tile, but much of the roof has a slope of only 2:12. What precautions should we take?
Q: Are there any drawbacks to reroofing over asphalt shingles? How many layers can accumulate before you should tear them off?
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Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
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Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
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Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
Q: Puzzled by conflicting energy advice? We asked our panel experts to help out by summarizing the latest thinking on a number of thorny issues.
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Q: I’ve had several customers interested in salvage sinks and faucets for kitchen and bath remodels. However, most of these old fixtures are covered with water scale. What causes the scale buildup on kitchen and bath faucets and fixtures, and how can it be removed?
Q: The photo below shows unsightly black staining on asphalt roof shingles. This staining appears to be caused by a mildew or fungus. It is common in this area of eastern Virginia, which is rainy and humid in the spring, hot and humid in the summer, and warm and humid in the early fall. I have made...