In an effort to make fall protection more practical, OSHA continues to refine its alternative strategies. A framing contractor explains how to work safely and meet the regs, but still get the job done. Read more
Hidden Deck Fasteners
Face-nailing will never die, but a new breed of concealed fasteners provide the key to better-looking, longer-lasting decks. Here’s a survey of what’s out there. Read more
We pounded the floors at the Atlanta Builders’ Show looking for the best new tools to help your work go easier and faster. Read more
As with all roofing, the quality of the installation determines the longevity of a concrete roof. A pro describes the critical details. Read more
Recent developments in broadcasting and cable technology make television advertising a surprisingly low-cost way to make a big impression. Here’s how one media-savvy remodeling contractor does just that. Read more
Hand-held power planers have many uses on the job site, from framing to finish. In this hands-on review, we look at power, weight, balance, depth of cut, and ease of blade changing to help you select the right tool. Read more
Q&A: Making a Balcony Door Watertight
Q: I built a house with a second-floor balcony, and I installed waterproofing membrane and tile on the balcony deck. Around the perimeter of the door, I installed Moistop flexible flashing. The siding is stucco. The room under the balcony is now leaking. Read more
Q: Is it okay to butt fiber-cement siding against aluminum-clad windows and aluminum soffit, or will the fiber-cement cause a reaction that damages the aluminum? Read more
Q: What is the maximum number of 12-gauge wires permitted in 3/4-inch conduit? Read more
Q: In his November 1998 article, "Using Water Heaters for Radiant Heat," Bill Clinton shows how to heat a home with a gas water heater. Will an electric water heater work in this type of system? How about a tankless electric water heater? Read more
Q: We are restoring a 19th-century Victorian home with a painted brick exterior. The client wants to remove the six or more existing layers of paint, down to the natural brick. What is the best way to remove the paint without destroying the brick or morta Read more
Q: Can I install ceramic tile over a painted concrete floor without removing the paint? Read more
Q: Can a timber-framed home have a stucco exterior, with the timbers exposed on the exterior, in the Tudor manner? Read more
Q. I plan to install rigid foam insulation in a crawlspace. As far as I know, most types of rigid foam insulation can’t be left exposed, but need to be covered with a layer of drywall for fire resistance. Is there a type of rigid foam insulation panel available that can be left exposed? Read more
Mistakes that lose customers Read more
Timing is critical when filing a lien Read more
Trade Talk: Can You Substitute Synthetic Fibers for Wire Mesh?
Although contractors often substitute synthetic fibers for wire mesh in concrete slabs, the two products perform different functions Read more
Kitchens designed for everybody Read more
Wanted: new homes for prairie dogs Read more
