December 2005 Table of Contents

Features
Building a Curved Portico Building a Curved Portico

Laying out and cutting everything on the ground and using synthetic millwork simplified the construction of this classic front entry porch. Read more

Tool Test: Coil Framing Nailers Tool Test: Coil Framing Nailers

Coils guns are heavier than stick nailers, so look for a well-balanced tool. Read more

Foolproof Cure for Wet Basements Foolproof Cure for Wet Basements

Skip the exterior excavation and waterproofing -- an interior perimeter drainage system can work just as well. Read more

Success With Traditional Trim Success With Traditional Trim

Window details like profiled stools and aprons with applied moldings have helped this builder find a profitable niche. Read more

Letters
Letters

Spanish on the job site; safety first; wind hold-downsfor rafter tails; faster plaster repair; building onthe beach; more Read more

News
In the News In the News

New tax break takes shape; top-dollar tarps in New Orleans; unvented crawlspace design guide; 2005 Solar Decathlon; more Read more

Q & A
Fixing a Noisy Condo Wall Fixing a Noisy Condo Wall

Even when properly designed, construction defects in a separation wall will allow sound to leak through. Read more

Solving a Peeling Floor Finish Problem Q&A Solving a Peeling Floor Finish Problem

If not identified and remedied, surface contaminants will prevent a floor finish from bonding during a recoat. Read more

Shimming with Cellular PVC Q&A Shimming with Cellular PVC

Does PVC trim have enough compressive strength to be used as a shim between a supporting column and a bearing beam? Read more

On the Job
On the Job: Understair Pantry On the Job: Understair Pantry

Understair pantry; hidden header detail; sturdy deck protection; firmer footing Read more

Business
Team Hiring - A Group Decision Business Team Hiring - A Group Decision

I'm a remodeler in Northern California and do about $1.5 million per year in kitchens, baths, and whole-house remodels. Much of the work is subbed, so we can do this volume with a relatively small full-time crew; currently we have two in the office and three in the field. Read more

Kitchen & Bath
Kitchen & Bath

Kitchen sinks; bathroom fittings & fixtures Read more

Products
Products

Pint-sized peel-and-stick; metalconnectors; durable exterior trim; whole-house audio & video Read more

Toolbox
Toolbox Toolbox

Delta 36-255L TwinLaser miter saw; handsaws; concrete & masonry tools Read more

Backfill
Stare-Worthy Handrail Backfill Stare-Worthy Handrail

The meticulously restored exterior of this late-19th-century mansard-roofed Victorian home in Cambridge, Mass., gives no clue to the presence of a beautifully crafted and surprisingly whimsical central staircase within. Read more

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