These builders switched from commercial construction to environmentally responsible residential building — and they’ve learned how to make money at it. Read more
New engineered-lumber cores have cut the cost and improved the stability of raised-panel doors. Here’s an overview. Read more
A stair installer explains how to prefit the railing package in the shop for a flawless installation on site. Read more
An EIFS installation is only as strong as its weakest details. A veteran EIFS troubleshooter tells how to keep the water out at penetrations. Read more
A custom builder explains the simple steps he takes at the framing stage to create a tight, energy-efficient house. Read more
Q: The homeowner living in a ranch house our company built five years ago is complaining of mysterious carpet staining, showing up as a stripe along the outside walls of some rooms. There do not appear to be any water leaks or problems with the gas applia Read more
Q: In the April 2000 issue of JLC (Letters), Rex Cauldwell recommended treating acidic water that eats copper pipe. Our water has a pH of 6.2 and definitely eats copper. What kind of water treatment equipment do I need? retrofit; painting interior brick Read more
Q: A homeowner in central Pennsylvania has asked me to repair a roof with a history of ice-dam problems. The roof is over a cathedral ceiling that has only 6 inches of fiberglass insulation, with no space for venting above the insulation. Can you provide Read more
Q: I need to paint an interior brick wall in a bedroom, and I’m not sure what type of paint to use. Because the brick wall includes the back of a fireplace, I’m worried that the heat from the fireplace might affect the selection or durability of the paint Read more
Reap benefits from training your own replacement Read more
How to question an immigrant’s legal status Read more
Preventing cracks in solid-surface counters Read more
Versatile scaffolding for any site Read more
A true gut remodel Read more