Heating with Panel Radiators
These compact units provide the comfort and simplicity of baseboard radiators without gobbling up all the available wall space. Read more
Salvaging Building Material
A carpenter turned salvage contractor tells how he turns a profit keeping used materials out of the landfill, and shares some methods for removing common salvage items without damage. Read more
Dazzle clients with your understanding of this year's crop of bigger, smarter, hotter, and cooler kitchen appliances. Read more
Segmental Block Retaining Walls
Longer lasting than timber and more user friendly than stone, segmental block retaining walls combine good looks with great structural stability. Read more
A Close Look at Stucco
Traditional three-coat, one-coat, or EIFS, stucco is only as reliable as the water-management details behind it. A second- generation stucco contractor identifies common problems and offers proven solutions. Read more
In the News
Fatal porch collapse highlights flimsy connections, self-draining housewrap, new wood preservatives raise corrosion questions Read more
Building a Frost-Protected Foundation for an Unheated Building
In a cold climate, combining rigid foam insulation with a well-compacted, free-draining substrate is the key to avoiding heaving damage to a slab foundation. Read more
Q. I am remodeling a 1920s house that has the original knob-and-tube wiring. I would like to blow cellulose into the stud cavities but am guessing that it's not safe to do that with the exposed wiring in the cavities. What does code say? Read more
Q. Why can't I use 7/16-inch OSB over 1-inch rough pine boards for carpet underlayment? Read more
Healing Your Inner Underestimator
Underestimating is far more prevalent than overestimating. In this JLC classic, Paul Eldrencamp explains the causes and cures. Read more
Death of a contractor Read more
Toolbox: Power Handsaw
Power handsaw, plus ladders and scaffolding, drill bits, and safety gear Read more
