January 2010 Table of Contents

Features
Blower Door Testing Blower Door Testing

Diagnose problems in the building envelope with this simple, reliable tool. Read more

Building Decks with Log Posts Building Decks with Log Posts

Use these methods to incorporate natural timbers into your custom work. Read more

Installing Iron Balusters Installing Iron Balusters

This method is fast and reduces epoxy cleanup. Read more

Retrofitting a High-Tech Heating System Retrofitting a High-Tech Heating System

This design uses a gas boiler and solar thermal collectors as heat inputs, and incorporates an HRV into the air handler. Read more

Insulating a Slab With Spray Foam Insulating a Slab With Spray Foam

Closed-cell polyurethane provides a vapor barrier and good R-value in a single application. Read more

Letters
Letters

Restoration ethic questioned Read more

News
JLC Report: Massachusetts To Require Continuing Education for Relicensing JLC Report: Massachusetts To Require Continuing Education for Relicensing

Massachusetts requires continuing education for relicensing; FEMA’s redrawn flood maps boost insurance rates; California grapples with net-metering policy; more Read more

Q&A
Does an Unvented Roof Void a Shingle Warranty? Q&A Does an Unvented Roof Void a Shingle Warranty?

How to avoid condensation problems when installing asphalt shingles over a roof deck insulated with sprayed-in-place foam. Read more

Metal Connectors and Galvanized Coatings Q&A Metal Connectors and Galvanized Coatings

Can standard galvanized Simpson STHD strap-tie hold-downs be used in contact with ACQ plates and framing? We've been schooled by our local building officials to avoid placing anything but stainless steel or heavy-duty hot-dipped galvanized metal connectors in contact with ACQ lumber, but these aren't stocked by our local lumberyard. Read more

What to Know About Trowel-Applied Membranes What to Know About Trowel-Applied Membranes

They can work fine ... IF they are installed carefully and properly. Read more

On the Job
Replacing Windows in Log Homes On the Job Replacing Windows in Log Homes

While new construction projects are fewer and farther between these days, the tax credit for window and door replacements has kept our company plenty busy. Read more

Business
Business Streamlining Kitchen Remodels

We run a full-service remodeling company with a division solely dedicated to kitchen and bathroom remodels. Read more

Products
Handheld Shower with Multi-Spray Settings Handheld Shower with Multi-Spray Settings

The ActivTouch handheld shower has three spray-selection buttons that let users select up to eight spray combinations with the push of a button. Read more

Toolbits
General Tools MM80G Moisture Meter Toolbits General Tools MM80G Moisture Meter

If you would like to equip your crews with moisture meters but balk at the price, take a look at General Tools' MM80G. Read more

PAM Fastening E-Z Driver Toolbits PAM Fastening E-Z Driver

The E-Z Driver is a simple but useful drill accessory for fastening deck boards or squeezing screws into awkward spots where you can use only one hand. Read more

Web Devices Handi Strap Harness Toolbits Web Devices Handi Strap Harness

We used the Handi Strap harness to lug 5-gallon buckets of drywall compound, and it made the lifting much easier. Read more

Trojan Manufacturing Wide Body Miter Saw Stand Toolbits Trojan Manufacturing Wide Body Miter Saw Stand

Trojan's Wide Body Miter Saw Stand (MS-2008-WB) is made for the biggest sliding compound miter saws. Read more

Backfill
Backfill Custom-Carved Corbels

As part of a job finishing a side-porch addition to a Victorian home, I had to reproduce six decorative corbels. Read more

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