Building Performance
Deep Energy Retrofit: Insulation and Thermal Decoupling
Philip Armand explores how to dial-in insulation levels in a deep energy retrofit, balancing performance with return on investment. Read more
Practical Ventilation for a Warm, Humid Climate
A builder in coastal North Carolina describes the strategies and equipment he uses to manage humidity and provide better IAQ in energy-efficient homes. Read more
Project Managers Council
Managing Project Logistics
Three project managers explore the intricacies of managing the hundreds of variables that come into play in running a job. Read more
JLC
Adding Water to Joint Compound?
For a smoother mix with fewer bubbles, drywall pro Lydia Crowder recommends adding water to joint compound. The trick is using the right amount. Read more
Vapor Control in Cold Climates
Do the vapor barrier requirements in the IRC contradict the code's insulation requirements? Read more
Installing a Precast Shower Floor
Rich Balland walks us through the installation of a relatively affordable composite stone shower base. Read more
Using Feedback to Boost Your Bottom Line
Veteran remodeler Brian Altmann explains why you want to hear from your clients about their experiences - both positive and negative - when dealing with your company. Read more
Cordless Nailers for Trim Work
Finish carpenter Tommie Mullaney tests four of Metabo HPT's new cordless trim nailers, ranging from 15-gauge to 23-gauge. Read more
A Surprising Track Saw Option
Gary Striegler reports on Kreg's affordable ACS plunge saw, which has many of the same features as more expensive models from other track saw manufacturers. Read more
A One-Man Environmental Disaster
Meet Thomas Midgley, who within a 6-year span in the 1920's managed to invent both leaded gasoline and CFCs (Freon). Read more
Right-Sizing Deck Beams
Mike Guertin breaks down how to read the new code tables and adjustments for cantilevered joists to more accurately size the beams on a deck. Read more
EYE FOR DESIGN
Box-Framed Curved Deck Stairs
Stacked on top of each other, a series of ascending tapered boxes form the framework for the stair’s treads and risers. Read more
Replacing a Balcony Floor
Manny Silva breaks down how he floated a new meranti floor over an EPDM membrane to solve a leaky problem. Read more
DAY'S END
Tree of Life Privacy Wall
This wall was engineered to resist wind loads, but it's the fiber optic lighting that makes it shine at night. Read more
Multi-size Shower Tray
Available in multiple sizes, this low-profile tray can be installed flush. Read more
All-in-One Decking Kit
The kit includes the steel deck framing, stairs, composite decking, aluminum railing, and hardware required to build a 12-by-12-foot deck. Read more
Post-consumer Recycled Decking
Embossed plastic-composite boards are available with square or grooved edges. Read more
Enhanced Construction Tape
A new acrylic and rubber differential tape bonds foam to plastic or vinyl. Read more
High-Performance Exterior Paint
Dutch Boy Maxbond Plus exterior paint has an upgraded formula. Read more
Ledger Bracket for Brick Veneer Siding
Steel ledger brackets transfer loads from the deck ledger directly to the house framing. Read more
Four-in-One Exterior Insulation Panel
Masonry backing is integrated with structural sheathing to simplify installation. Read more
Self-Sealing Joist and Ledger Deck Tape
Protect exterior wood framing from the moisture that enables rot. Read more
Fast-Cure Acrylic Roof Coating
Maintain and refresh sound roof membranes showing signs of normal aging and wear. Read more
Interior and Exterior Hybrid Sealant
DAP AMP All-Weather sealant can be applied to wet and damp surfaces. Read more
