April 2009 Table of Contents

Today’s treated-lumber producers promise good protection with less corrosion, but the jury is out on long-term performance. Read more

JLC talks to four builders with long track records about what it means to build green. Read more

This alternative to slate is light, rugged, and easy to cut. Read more

Leak-free chimney; stainless steel screws and copper; subslab vapor-barrier details; credit card warning Read more

Stimulus plan promotes energy-efficiency spending; California approves PEX; production-builder CEO rakes in $9.6 million for ’08; more Read more

Does anyone make a fireproof deck board? Read more

Paperless drywall takes a little more work, but it's a good choice for mold-sensitive folks. Read more

While trimming out a room during a remodeling job, the homeowner asked me to build a window seat. Does the window above the seat now have to be fitted with tempered safety glass? Read more

How much insulation is necessary under a typical basement radiant slab? Read more

A few strategically located Doug fir 6x10s help match a conventionally framed addition to a post-and-beam home. Read more

All-in-one flashing panel; spray-foam insulation; shower seat; lightweight steel beams; grass driveway mats; push-fit fittings; more Read more

Last fall I reviewed several saws that collect the dust generated when fiber cement is cut. Read more

Festool's T12+3 and T15+3 cordless drill/drivers feature brushless motors and unique electronic clutch controls that change the motor speed and disengage the motor at a preset torque limit. Read more

Every plumber has a tale about being beat up by his right-angle drill, so any model that improves user safety is worth a look. Read more

Many users ignore the high and low gears on a drill/driver: Running in high makes the work go faster but can burn up the motor, while low gear protects the tool but feels too slow. Read more

Putting a temporary fence around your job site can mean pounding in a lot of T-posts. Read more

Long, heavy building materials can be difficult to lift and maneuver around job sites, especially by hand. Read more

Boring a utility access hole under a sidewalk or driveway is hard work and often requires hiring a sub. Read more

Telehandlers are a builder's workhorse. Read more

Underground dome home Read more

These two interviews with Michael Anschel and Michael McCutcheon are part of a series of conversations that editor Dave Holbrook had with green builders around the country. Read more