With careful preparation, this treatment gives a custom touch to a plain-Jane slab. Read more
Traditional methods and materials prevent leaks for the life of the structure. Read more
A deft reworking of existing space produces an expansive hub for cooking and entertainment. Read more
Using simple techniques and specialized products, you can block out even live rock ’n ’roll. Read more
hub for cooking and entertainment Read more
Make sure the soil has adequate bearing capacity, and that the footings won't create lateral pressure on the foundation wall. Read more
Q. My clients have a garage with a conventionally framed 4/12 roof that they want to convert to living space. They like the idea of a vaulted ceiling but not the expense of the new structural ridge it would require. As a compromise, can I replace the existing ceiling joists with rafter ties? Read more
Q. My client's metal fireplace is supplied by a makeup air system with a built-in circulation fan. This fan - which plugs into an accessible outlet - is triggered by a heat sensor in the fireplace. While effective, it's also very loud. To reduce the noise, I'd like to replace the fan's on/off switch with a variable-speed control. Is that possible? The manufacturer doesn't seem to offer anything. Read more
For small contractors in today’s competitive market, sales skills can make the difference between struggling and prospering. Yet many contractors turn up their noses at formal sales training, viewing it as a waste of time and money. Are they right? Or is enrolling in a training program an effective way to improve sales skills — and the company’s bottom line? Read more
Earlier this year, a friend of mine had an interesting conversation with a young man who was subcontracting for a GC. The contractor owed the young man a pile of money and my friend was concerned. But the young man assured him there was nothing to worry about, because the contractor was a pal and would never stiff him. “Besides,” said the young man, “I can always put a lien on the property.” Read more
Powered by an 18-volt lithium-ion battery, Makita's BHR202 SDS-Plus cordless rotary hammer is rated for making 15/16-inch holes in concrete. Read more
Outside of a few drywall contractors, I've met few people who could accurately guide a drywall router freehand. Read more
FastCaps' Pocket Chisel is protected by its own folding handle and is tough enough — according to the maker — to withstand hammer blows. Read more
DeWalt's new Track Saws make it a lot easier to break down sheets of cabinet plywood or MDF. Read more
I've never met a carpenter who didn't like his Fein MultiMaster, but I've met plenty who think Fein's prices — especially for accessories — are a little steep. Read more
The self-leveling PLS5 point-to-point laser has been updated. Read more
At roughly the size and capacity of a large twin stack but easier to move, Ridgid's OL50145MW 5-Gallon Mini Wheelbarrow Air Compressor features a cast-iron cylinder, an oil-lube pump, a 10-inch flat-free tire, a ball-valve tank drain, a protective roll cage, and two quick couplers. Read more
The two-speed PS30 Compact Driver/Drill from Bosch delivers 220 inch-pounds of torque and 1,100 rpm — but weighs a mere 2 1/2 pounds. Read more
I bought the Jet 708315BTC because I wanted to supplement my regular job-site table saw with a portable model. Read more
In October 2007, JLC illustrator Tim Healey envisioned a future in which pickup trucks would be replaced by freight-hauling bicycles. Who knew then that a few intrepid builders had already made the switch? Read more
A list of companies that offer soundproofing supplies and materials Read more