October 2009 Table of Contents

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

Tree roots and foundation cracks; code logic; mixing plastics; site-built arched trusses 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

Open valley flashing; cooler cabinet Read more

A list of companies that offer deck-rail kits, plus links to their products Read more

Toekick drawers; ductless cooktop exhaust; trimmable truss; low-profile smoke alarm; flexible cement board; light MDF; more 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