Doing Vinyl Right
When it comes to giving vinyl an authentic period look, the right details make all the difference. Read more
Framing With Light-Gauge Steel
Steel won't rot or get eaten by termites, and every piece is perfectly straight. A contractor who switched from wood to light-gauge steel discusses the differences and similarities between the two. Read more
Installing an Ornamental Tile Floor
A stiff, strong subfloor and an accurate layout add up to a top-quality tile floor. A veteran tilesetter explains his approach. Read more
Replacing Factory-Built Fireplaces
When a prefab fireplace wears out, the only solution is to remove it and install a new one. Here are some tips from a specialist. Read more
Running a Production Trim Business
An interior trim carpenter whose company specializes in servicing large national builders tells how to produce a high-quality interior finish quickly and efficiently. Read more
In the News
Lumber prices double, Consumer Reports rates building materials, Canadian study finds window leaks, more Read more
Q. I'd like to finish the above-grade portion of a poured-concrete foundation with a color coat of stucco. The broken-off snap-ties are visible and are slightly rusty. Do I need to treat these with anything before I apply the stucco to prevent a rust stai Read more
Q. Do the energy savings provided by instantaneous gas water heaters justify their higher cost? Read more
Q. I'm a remodeler and often work around existing wiring. What's the most practical and inexpensive tool for detecting live current in either romex or wire in a metal conduit? Can you detect current inside the conduit without opening the conduit? Read more
Q. It has become common practice in new construction around Nashville to vent bathroom fans into a nearby soffit. One problem is that the vent often gets covered with vinyl or metal soffit because the siding crew doesn't want to cut a hole in the finished Read more
Estimating from incomplete drawings Read more
Do you want to be the second contractor on a job? Read more
