Where wood and metal meet masonry, a caulked joint is often the only way to keep the water out. Here’s how to ensure durable, waterproof joints. Read more
There will always be homeowners who are out to take advantage of unwary builders. These tales of woe may help you see them coming and minimize the harm. Read more
A Massachusetts builder explains how he uses factory-built panels to lower costs and speed construction of custom homes and additions. Read more
Moisture problems often develop in bathrooms when homeowners refuse to use noisy bath fans. The solution: fans rated at 1.5 sones or less. We survey the options. Read more
For headers and built-up beams, laminated veneer lumber is often a good substitute for steel. Here’s how to store, handle, cut, and fasten this versatile material. Read more
Q&A: Using LVL to Reinforce Existing Beams
Q: Can laminated veneer lumber (LVL) be used to strengthen existing wood beams? I’ll soon be working on a remodeling project where the existing floor system is supported by an undersized built-up wood beam, and I would like to stiffen the existing beam by bolting LVL material to it. Read more
Q: After my electrician finished rough wiring the last house I built, I noticed that the Romex (NM) wire he used seemed to have a thinner profile, and the individual wires seemed smaller in diameter than what I was used to. Is the copper wire (or the insulation) getting smaller, or is it just my imagination? Read more
Q: The house I’m building has a cathedral ceiling framed with wood I-joists, continuous ventilation at the soffit, and a continuous ridge vent. The ceiling inside will be T&G pine. I plan to use R-38 Kraft-faced fiberglass batts (which will allow a 1 1/2-inch air space between the roof sheathing and the batts), and would like to apply Tyvek housewrap over the Kraft-faced batts. However, I’m concerned that moisture will accumulate between the batts and the Tyvek. If moisture accumulation isn’t a problem, does it matter which face of the Tyvek is exposed to the room? Read more
Designing for trash Read more
Understanding your baseline numbers Read more
Watch out for implied warranties Read more
Deciphering the Engineer's Lingo
In this JLC classic, Scott McVicker explains some of the common terms engineers frequently use. Read more
Site glazing with Superglass Read more
Tricks from a veteran carpenter Read more
Acoustic batts, pretiled shower pan, drywall patching tape Read more
New generation levels Read more