Even in a well-insulated home, certain framing details invite air leaks and heat loss. An energy consultant shows how to avoid costly weatherization retrofits by including effective air barriers in the framing process. Read more
A wood-frame expert takes us on a tour of the most common mistakes made by roof framers, and shows how to do it right. Read more
Concrete sets up fast in hot, dry weather, increasing the chance that cracks and surface defects will develop. A concrete contractor from the desert Southwest tells how to keep your cool in the heat of a concrete pour. Read more
When it comes to bidding, the lowest price isn’t always best. A veteran remodeler explains five strategies that raise the odds you’ll not only get the work, but you’ll make a profit, too. Read more
For small, tight houses and apartments, full-blown mechanical ventilation systems may be overkill. Here’s a tested approach that uses an upgraded bath fan, a programmable timer, and a few air inlets to guarantee fresh air at minimal cost. Read more
Most water heater problems can be solved quickly and at little cost — if you know what to look for. Two water heater specialists explain the step-by-step procedures for finding and fixing trouble. Read more
Generic I-joists, hurricane-proof glass, debunking EMFs Read more
Q: We blocked over a couple of basement windows in a stuccoed stone foundation wall. What’s the best way to patch the stucco? Can a simple bagged mortar mix be used to cover the block, or do we need to use stucco? Read more
Q: We build along the coast in North Carolina, which is considered a high-wind zone with gusts up to 120 mph. We’re interested in using standing-seam metal roofing panels, but we are concerned about blow-offs. Can you tell us what details and panel specifications we should require from our roofing subs before accepting a bid? Read more
Q&A: Rafter Framing With Unequal Wall Heights
Q: How do you figure rafter lengths for a gable roof when one wall is 10 feet high, and the other is 8 feet high (illustration A)? The span of the building is 24 feet. We want the roof pitch to be the same on both sides. Read more
Making room under the roof Read more
The customer’s right to cancel Read more
Choosing between Quicken and QuickBooks Read more
Handling heavy loads with site-built trusses Read more
Joist hanger alignment tool, power cord reel, fiber cement roofing Read more
Tips for using water levels Read more
