Why and How to Build an Insulated Overroof
Avoiding the risk of condensation in a modern low-slope roof design that doesn't have enough depth in the roof assembly for adequate insulation. Read more
Practical Details for Earthquake-Resilient Buildings
Shear walls and strong connections are key in resisting the lateral forces that apply horizontal loads on a building. Read more
Decoding the Framing Square for Rafter Layout
Hidden in the rafter table is the base, altitude, and hypotenuse for 34 different right triangles; John Carroll lays out how to use these numbers to frame a roof. Read more
Q & A
Is Rusty Rebar a Problem?
Why doesn’t the rebar used to reinforce concrete footings and foundations—which are in contact with ground water—rust and break the concrete into pieces? Read more
JLC
Learning From the Past
Brent Hull builds a strong case for why we should study the work of past carpenters. Read more
Should You Consider Switching to Cost-Plus Pricing?
Since overhauling his business agreements, Jon Beer earns a profit and covers overhead on every remodeling job. Read more
JLC
R-Value Creates Confusion. Let's Change That
How much more insulation should you add to a wall? R-value doesn't help you answer this questions, but a simple change in labeling insulation products would. Read more
Tool Test: Makita XGT Beam Saw
Tim Uhler puts Makita's new 40-volt 10 1/4-inch rear-handle saw to the test. Read more
Tool Test: Castle 110 Pocket Cutter
Gary Striegler reviews a pocket hole machine that uses a router instead of a drill to make cleaner cuts. Read more
New Tool: Metabo HPT MultiVolt Cordless Compressor
Perfect for punchlist work, this compact and quiet compressor can be powered by either a battery or an optional AC adaptor. Read more
Clog-Free Sandpaper
JLC editor Clayton DeKorne tries out Diablo's SandNet, an open-weave nylon mesh abrasive that impressively does not clog. Read more
California’s Forgotten ‘Big One’
The earthquake that devastated California's Fort Tejon in 1857 was one of the strongest ever recorded in the U.S. Read more
EYE FOR DESIGN
Forest Floor Deck
How a Colorado builder created a deck surface out of log rounds embedded in epoxy, and illuminated it from below. Read more
Building a Deck With a Welded Steel Frame
How Rob Corbo and his team upgraded an urban backyard with a uniquely-framed deck. Read more
Better Porch Stairs
Manny Silva pattern-routed the stringers and trim for the porch stairs on a recent project. Here's why. Read more
Enhanced Outdoor Living
New aluminum offerings from Trex include privacy panels and a free-standing pergola. Read more
Four-in-One Decking Spacers
With four sides of different sizes, these spacers can be used with various deck materials. Read more
Smooth Profile Cabinet Fronts
Beveled molding details and hidden midrails blend traditional and modern looks. Read more
Galvanized Steel Knee-Brace Connectors
The black powder-coated hardware is available for 4-by and 6-by lumber. Read more
Collaborative Rainscreen and Cladding
Specially profiled Kebony modified-wood cladding snaps onto rails. Read more
Soft-Close, Adjustable Cabinet Hinge
A three-tiered adjustment switch controls the closing action. Read more
Water-Impervious Wood Alternative
Made from PVC and rice hulls, the sheets and boards cut with regular tools and take paint and stain. Read more
Smart Heated Floor Control
New thermostats from Laticrete offer easier control over the Strata_Heat floor warming system. Read more
Multi-Application Drain Pump
Pump away graywater from basement sinks, dishwashers, showers, and washing machines. Read more
Mineral-Based Composite Decking
Deckorators' Voyage decking comes in 16- and 20-foot lengths and can be used for cladding. Read more
