Heavy Lifting: A Housemover's Journal
A Massachusetts building mover details the process of lifting a 1772 post-and-beam house completely intact, transporting it over land and water, and setting it to rest at its new home. Read more
Installing an Electric-Radiant Tile Floor
Electric-resistance tile-warming systems can increase comfort in the kitchen and bath without greatly increasing the client's electric bill. A tilesetter shares his method for a foolproof installation. Read more
Lead-Safe Remodeling With Dust-Containment and Meticulous Cleanup
The dangers of lead exposure are well documented, so it makes sense to take precautions when disturbing old paint. A restoration carpenter discusses legal liability and shares practical measures for minimizing the risk. Read more
Tool Test: Portable Thickness Planers
We compare seven popular thickness planers for cutting capacity, power, quality of cut, portability, and noise output. Here's how they stack up. Read more
In the News
Another deck collapse; problems with painting stucco; translucent concrete; more Read more
Q&A
Bamboo Floor Not as Hard as Claimed?
Lightweight pneumatic hose; paint for fiber cement; wet-dry central vac; landscaping products; metal stairs; fire prevention products Read more
Q.Where can I obtain information about radon gas, its effects, and what products will prevent emissions from coming up through slab foundations? Read more
Q. I need to fix a problem with ice dams in a new house. The ice dams form in two valleys over a cathedral ceiling and are causing leaks. The roof is standing-seam metal, and there is not enough venting in the valley area. Is there a solution short of tea Read more
Design
Dormers by Design
Some of the most appealing interior spaces are those created under a roof that has been sensitively fitted with dormers. Nestled at treetop level, these spaces are formed by the sloped, sheltering surfaces of the primary roof and the walls of the dormers, which admit daylight. Read more
Legal
When You Have To Terminate a Contract
A short time ago I got a call from a builder with whom I've worked for many years. He usually seeks legal advice before jumping into something new, but this time he was a bit slow to check in. The builder had terminated a homeowner's renovation contract before the work was complete and was being sued for $200,000 in damages. Read more
Shower spas; microwave ovens Read more
