Many common kitchen design elements are inefficient or downright dangerous. These guidelines from a kitchen specialist will help you create kitchens that not only look great and work well, but are safe to use. Read more
Contrary to popular perception, brick is not waterproof. Water gets behind it and can rot the structure and ruin finishes. A brick design expert describes the flashing and weep details that ensure water can get out from behind brick veneer before it causes problems. Read more
The MEC provides three ways to comply: simple prescriptive rules, a “tradeoff” approach, and performance design. An energy consultant tells how to decide which method best fits your project. Read more
A tax consultant outlines the pros and cons of the four common business tax structures — sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and limited liability company — and provides guidelines for choosing the right one. Read more
Q: How can I get rid of mildew growing on joists in an insulated crawlspace? The mildew is only on the bottom edges and sides of the joists where the batt insulation doesn’t cover them. I suspect it’s from warm, humid air wafting through the basement in the summer. The soil is basically dry. Read more
Q: A client wants to build a heated room over an existing deck. I’m suggesting that we insulate the deck floor by placing two layers of 2-inch "polyiso" foam board between the existing joists. Two layers should bring the floor to the required R-30 after discounting for heat loss through the joists. Will this work, and what should I do to protect the foam board from moisture, insects, fire, and so forth? Read more
Q: Is it a good idea to install vinyl siding over OSB sheathing without putting up any housewrap or felt? I see this more and more often, and wonder whether the OSB should be protected since vinyl is fairly leaky. Apparently there is nothing in the codes against this practice. Read more
Designing elegant deck rails Read more
Nailing down the budget with prospective clients Read more
Last look at preventing Y2K problems Read more
We scouted the 1999 National Hardware Show for the tools we think will make you more productive in the coming year. Read more
Wrenchless routers and grinders Read more
Going into business for yourself, high-velocity hvac Read more