July 2014 Table of Contents

Builder Farley Pedler delves into high-efficiency Passive House construction by building his own passive house in Martha's Vineyard, Mass. Read more

A veteran stair builder explains how he built a unique newel and railing system on site from stock parts. Read more

This follow-up article to "Mudsill Layout for a Complex Foundation" describes techniques for framing the first-floor deck. Read more

Roofing with asphalt shingles, bias against vocational education, working with caulk guns. Read more

Mike Guertin explains how rim joists can act as headers in a wall system, and how to insulate them. Read more

If the plywood subfloor is already in place, what makes a better setting bed for a floor tile installation: backerboard underlayment or plywood underlayment? Read more

Glenn Mathewson explains why the method used to frame a roof really depends on whether the ridge is structural or non-structural. Read more

The pros and cons of working with DAP SmartBond polyurethane subfloor adhesive, which goes on like foam sealant but collapses to a sticky gel. Read more

Contractors are often their own worst enemies. Here are four ways they make it harder for their businesses to succeed. Read more

Common energy-saving tips are lies. Are you still repeating them? Read more

The new Quad Max formula offers strong adhesion to a wider variety of building materials as well as greater stretch than other sealants, the manufacturer says. Read more

This Prestige Series water heater is the most efficient the company has offered to date. Read more

A portable dust-wall-in-a-box, the pack includes seven reusable nylon panels that zip together on the jobsite. Read more

Grooved to accept any siding product, without shims, this cellular PVC trim is available for remodeling and new construction. Read more

This easy-to-install load-bearing glass-reinforced plastic pan is designed for use with curbless showers. Read more

This stand-off base keeps the post the code-required 1 inch above the concrete, and can be cast in place or anchored to an existing slab. Read more

Shakes are now available pre-primed or prefinished in one of three semi-transparent colors. Read more

The convector uses an electronically controlled modulating burner and modulating fan convector to deliver just the right amount of heat. Read more

This flexible strip fits neatly into any inside corner. It’s available in various lengths and can be customized with any combination of devices. Read more

This radiant heating system provides floor warming and uncoupling in a single layer. Read more

Kits come in 6-foot sections for installation between existing posts. Read more

Clopay is offering coordinating doors with matching paint finishes, glass options, and panel designs. Read more

The 23SXP and the 23LXP pinners sport all the essential features and look durable. Check out our field test results to see how they fared. Read more

Several cordless finish nailers substitute flywheel power for internal combustion, but DeWalt's DCN690 and DCN692 are the first framing nailers to do so. Read more

Taking portable toilets to a whole new level. Read more

A remodeler working on a master suite remodel that involves a cathedral ceiling explains how to identify and address faulty roof framing. Read more