A construction accounting specialist shows how to generate detailed job-cost reports by using Quickbooks like a powerful electronic checkbook. Read more
Job-Site Power: Handle With Care
An electrician discusses several options for safe, economical temporary job-site power, and tells how to size extension cords so you don’t burn up your power tools. Read more
Should you buy aluminum, fiberglass, or wood? What size? And what do those ratings mean? A scaffolding contractor answers these and other questions about ladders, and describes the most useful accessories. Read more
Here’s a simple method for figuring the rafter runs on a lopsided gable — where each side of the roof has a different pitch. Read more
Rather than shore the house and replace the bulging block foundation, this builder used plywood slip forms to pour a concrete reinforcing wall on the outside. Read more
Shedding Light on Lasers
If you’re shopping for a laser layout tool but are confused by the variety of products on the market, this article’s for you. We compare cost and performance, and discuss whether a specific type of laser is suitable for the work you do. Read more
Q: Is it necessary to provide ventilation under shingles installed over SIP (structural insulated panel) roofs? I’ve heard that shingles installed directly over SIPs, without a vent cavity, fail prematurely. Read more
Q: Our rebar was delivered to the site before excavation for a stemwall foundation began. After sitting in the weather, it’s gotten quite rusty. Is this a problem? Read more
Q&A: Shoring a Balloon Frame
Q: I am rehabbing an old two-story balloon-framed house with a crumbling limestone foundation. I need to jack the walls slightly to repair the foundation. The floor joists rest on a 2-by leveling plate, and the 20-foot-tall studs are face-nailed to the sides of the joist ends (see illustration). With platform framing, I would ordinarily run a temporary beam under the joists as close to the foundation wall as possible and place my jacks under the beam. If I do that with this frame, I am concerned that the weight of the walls, which are carrying the second floor and roof, will shear the old face nails. Any suggestions? Read more
Designing & building a barrel vault ceiling Read more
How to guarantee good referrals Read more
Subs or employees? What the IRS has to say Read more
Simple fixes for shear wall nailing mistakes Read more
Opening up a galley kitchen Read more