Tool Test: Laser Distance Meters
These compact, precise measures complement traditional tapes Read more
Precut Framing
Factory-cut engineered joists and rafters can reduce labor costs and job-site waste Read more
Do Synthetic Underlayments Make for Better Roofs?
While some old pros are sticking with organic felts because they're low-priced and breathable, many are moving to synthetics for greater flexibility Read more
Contributors to the Rough Framing Forum discuss preferred ways to lift heavy framing members Read more
Q&A
Making Small EIFS Repairs
A stucco contractor explains how to patch minor nicks and abrasions in EIFS while matching the original finish. Read more
Q&A
The Secret to Cleaning Old Beams
Soap and water, oxalic acid, or wire brushing won't always work; fortunately, there's another option. Read more
Can a Roof Truss Be Repaired?
Because making a seat-of-the-pants field repair to a compromised truss exposes you to legal liability, it's best to have an engineer approve your plan. Read more
On the Job
Three Ways to Vent a Soffit
Cor-A-Vent corrugated polypropylene vents offer a low-profile soffit alternative to metal strip vents and perforated fiber-cement panels Read more
Business
The 10-Minute Profit Check
Checking weekly that actual expenses are in line with the estimate alerts you to overruns Read more
Products
Tough Mesh
SlimGuard Gutter Guard installs inside the gutter without caulk or screws Read more
Products
Binding Primer
Peel Stop Paint Primer is three times thicker than standard primers, says the maker Read more
Products
Smoke Blocker
Touch n Seal says FireStop Gun Foam is approved as a through-penetration firestop sealant Read more
Wireless Security Sensor
The Verilock is available as an add-on to Andersen's E-Series/Eagle windows and sliding doors Read more
Products
New Stair Options
Outwater has added several new finishes to its line of Traditional Staircase Elements Read more
Products
No More Sonotubes
Reinforced-concrete Perma-Columns keep wood posts away from ground moisture Read more
Products
Hybrid Knobs
Atlas Homewares' Modern Bronze Finish is a cross between traditional oil-rubbed bronze and modern graphite grey Read more
Faux Shakes
Bellaforte polymer roofing shakes can be installed to look like rough-hewn wood shakes Read more
Products
Double Duty
Premium Plus Zero VOC Interior Paint combines the primer and finish coat in one product Read more
Products
Disappearing Ridge Vent
The SmartRidge vent has a baffle on one side only so it's hidden from the street Read more
Products
Clean Woodburner
The Lopi Cape Cod Woodstove is billed as the cleanest-burning large cast-iron stove available Read more
Toolbits
Rotary Hammer
Makitaís LXTX2 is an update of the HRH01, except it uses two 18-volt batteries (instead of a single 36V) Read more
Toolbits
Compact Powerhouse
People who have tried the new M12 Fuel drivers say they pack a lot of power for their size Read more
Backfill
Pencil Sculptures
Carpenter Dalton Ghetti carved these remarkable miniatures out of lead with razor blades and sewing needles Read more
Whatever Happened to 30# Felt?
Asphalt-impregnated felt — aka tar paper — enjoyed a 100-year run as the preeminent roofing and siding underlayment. Read more
