Coastal communities need stricter, clearer codes, better training of builders and inspectors, and better quality control, say the experts after a year of studying the most devastating storm in U.S. history. Read more
Hydronic Radiant Heat for Wood-Framed Floors
You don’t need to pour a concrete slab to get the benefits of radiant heat. An engineer describes new approaches that combine radiant heating with conventional floors. Read more
Most central air-conditioning systems, new and old, fall far short of their rated efficiency. Here’s how to install a system for top performance. Read more
JLC Classic
The Last Word (We Hope) on Vapor Barriers
The moisture mavens at JLC tackle the tough questions we commonly hear from our readers about this ever murky, 6-mil membrane. We hope it puts to rest any lingering doubts. Read more
Expensive tile counters are often spoiled by layout errors or cracks in the grout. A tilesetter describes the methods and materials that guarantee an attractive and durable installation. Read more
Top 10 Profit Eaters
From planning mix-ups to picky clients, here’s where remodelers lose money and how to plug the leaks. Read more
Q: What do you recommend for covering knots on exterior wood siding to prevent bleed-through? Read more
Q&A: Ice-Proof Gutters
Q: How should gutters be attached to prevent them from getting ripped off the fascia when ice accumulates during winter? Read more
Q: I have been told that crushed stone should be placed beneath foundation footings as a capillary break to prevent moisture from migrating up the foundation wall into the basement or crawlspace. Won’t this make the footing settle? Read more
Q: I am remodeling a large, older home that is heated by a low-pressure steam system. Because of the size of the house, steam seems to be a good system to use, but the boiler is obsolete. We are adding insulation and sealed double glazing. How can I calculate the required size of the new boiler? Or can the system be converted to hot water? Read more
Updating past articles Read more
Homeowners’ manual Read more
Grand kitchens Read more
"The Journal's pick of curious, interesting, and useful products" Read more
Circular saw safety Read more