Heat Pumps in the Age of Electrification
For electrification to succeed, we need to design, install, and maintain heat pumps to ensure efficiency and comfort. Read more
FRAMING
Framing a Complex Addition
This dodecagon turret required careful layout to get the angles right, and an innovative ridge to tie the 12 hip rafters together. Read more
The Next Evolution in On-The-Job Training
A new, mobile-based construction training program has the potential to fundamentally change how we train the workforce. Read more
Q&A
Sound Control and Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam is great for air-sealing and insulating, but there are better options for making a building quieter. Read more
On the Job
Rescuing a Round-Top Window
Improved weatherproofing details around the window help, but the real key is the new kick-out flashing on the roof above. Read more
When Hidden Defects Complicate a Simple Deck Replacement
That missing ledger flashing would lead to rotted sheathing was no surprise, but nobody expected that the condo's I-joist floor system was built without rim joists. Read more
Taking Charge of Your Cash
Keeping cash on hand is not the same as making a profit. David Gerstel offers guidance on managing cash to make a valid profit. Read more
Local Hero: A Conversation With Tom Kelly
How one of the largest design-build remodeling companies in the country figured out how to combine business success with advocacy for sustainability and social responsibility. Read more
Steam Shower Lessons Learned
Doug Horgan shares the methods and materials his company uses for trouble-free steam shower installations. Read more
Tool Test: DeWalt Cordless 20-Volt Stud and Joist Drill
Read Ian Schwandt's report on DeWalt's heavy-duty DCD443B cordless right-angle drill. Read more
Tool Review: Festool FS-WA Angle Stop and FS-WA-VL Guide Extension
Tommie Mullaney checks out a pair of new accessories that add more versatility to Festool's guide rail system. Read more
Toolbits: Milwaukee I-Beam Hammers
Three new models ranging from 16-ounces to 28-ounces join the tool company's steel hammer line-up. Read more
Toolbits: PamFast Cordless Autofeed Screw Gun
The new unplugged version of FastenMaster's autofeed system is powered by either Makita or DeWalt drivers. Read more
Backfill
Mission Creep
John Carroll is on the home stretch of a 20-year odyssey to transform the crawlspace beneath his house into a full basement. Read more
Black Label Tropical Hardwoods
The company claims the lumber it sells is certified as sustainably harvested. Read more
Inverter Heat Pump
The inverter controls motor speed to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Read more
Stainless Steel Range Hood
Adjustable height makes this hood a good fit for high ceilings. Read more
Curved Bathroom Faucet
This artful faucet installs with a hands-free sensor or deck-mounted knobs. Read more
Rot-Preventing Deck Spacers
Spax Powerlags are now approved for use with Deck2Wall SWS Spacers. Read more
Dark Continuous Insulation
The dark facing on the noncombustible, fire-resistant, and vapor permeable mineral wool insulation helps it blend in behind open-joint cladding. Read more
