Common in commercial framing, steel studs provide straight and sturdy fire-rated partitions. Read more
Gaining an extra foot or two of headroom in a basement isn’t easy, but it can yield valuable living space. Read more
These durable systems are much easier to install than site-built rails. Read more
Build great-looking kitchens with these simple, efficient methods. Read more
Energy Star raises the bar with tough new 2011 specs; asphalt roofing prices defy downturn; Pella scores high; more Read more
Is a step down from living space into an attached garage still a code requirement? Read more
The solution depends on the exact cause of the staining. Here's how to find and fix the problem. Read more
Q: I've heard that polyurethane spray-foam insulation may contain penta-BDE, a chemical that is called a "toxic flame retardant" by the EPA and has been banned in some states. How much of a risk does this chemical cause for the installer and the homeowner, and are there alternatives? Read more
It might be easier to avoid damaging a nailing flange if you use a pneumatic nailer or stapler, but check the warranty first. Read more
A list of companies that offer deck-rail kits, plus links to their products Read more
A few years ago, I tested some of the new pneumatic cap staplers and cap nailers that had come on the market. Then Paslode introduced the CS150 cap stapler earlier this year, and I decided to try it out, too. Read more
Does the mere thought of your next stair job — all that tightening and loosening by hand of dozens of large clamps — have your carpal tunnel syndrome acting up? Read more
Joining stair handrail sections requires painstaking fitting and fastening, but the EasAlign system by Crown Heritage can make the job easier. Read more
M.Power's Flat Lying Trammel Heads have a pivoting point for fine adjustment and come with pencil and knife attachments. Read more
Part of Bosch's new laser line, the GTL3 layout laser projects 90- and 45-degree lines on a floor or wall. Read more
Laser distance meters allow one person to quickly measure a space with the push of a button, and they make area and volume calculations too. Read more
Cutting tubing inside a wall or other tight spot usually requires a midget cutter and nimble fingers, but Ridgid's new 2-in-1 Close Quarters Autofeed tubing cutter takes the fingers out of the equation. Read more
Increase your work area — and safety — in attics without floorboards by using The Ceiling Saver by Micjosco. Read more
According to Hilti, the new PR26 self-leveling rotating laser level's green beam is easier to see than the standard red. Read more
Finish-carpenter Brian Campbell wanted to keep his tools organized in his work trailer and still be able to transport the occasional full load of cabinets. He took his cue from a slat-wall system, where shelves, brackets, and hangers can be freely inserted behind horizontal slats without fasteners. Read more
Roll over this interactive poster to see the requirements and deadlines for remodeling-related energy improvements and equipment. The information comes from Remodeling magazine’s coverage of the stimulus package. Read more