Browse through these collections of mini-articles from the Fine Homebuilding archives to find detailed illustrations and in-depth coverage of all areas of house design and construction. These departments are full of insights into essential topics such as craftsmanship, building science, energy efficiency, design, material choices, tool reviews, business, and more.
Each of the titles below represents a recurring department found in issues of Fine Homebuilding. Click through to see a FREE collection of past articles from each department.
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Building SkillsFollow step-by-step instructions for essential tasks found in typical home-building and remodeling projects, such as cutting a rafter, coping a piece of molding, soldering a copper pipe, or hanging a door. |
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Drawing BoardGet insight into the concepts and processes architects and designers use to create beautiful, functional homes. |
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Energy-Smart DetailsEach of these detailed construction drawings comes with a clear explanation of why, how, and where to use it to help your home perform more efficiently. |
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Finishing TouchesBrowse this collection of photos and accompanying information to find useful design ideas and inspiring craftsmanship. |
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Great IdeasWe hope this department makes you slap your head and say, “Now why didn’t I think of that?” |
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Great MomentsSometimes things just go haywire in the building process. This department provides a healthy dose of humor and reminds beginners that things go wrong even for professionals. |
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How It WorksTake a closer look at what makes things tick. How It Works always follows the topic of one of the feature articles from the magazine. |
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Master CarpenterHere, we feature specialized techniques or projects not typically shown in our articles, such as eyebrow dormers, unequally pitched roofs, curved moldings, and traditional frame-and-panel work. The column is written by an expert craftsman. |
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Reader TipsThe most popular department in the magazine, tips are useful and clever. Most of the tips we run are aimed at getting work done faster, better, and cheaper. |
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TailgateIn this department, we interview builders, architects, designers, manufacturers, and other building specialists. |
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What’s the Difference?Here, we explore a choice between two or more similar items (what’s the difference between paint and primer, or silicone and latex caulk). The goal is to help you choose the right product when you are shopping at your local home center. |
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View Comments
I live in the North Texas area. I'm planning to build a energy efficient home there. Is anyone aware of a slab foundation being insulated with foam board on top of the slab and under the flooring? My thinking is the ground temp will be absorbed by the slab and will make a constant draw of energy to heat or cool the home, especially around the exterior of the home.
Tks
If you go to our sister-site, GreenBuildingAdvisor.com, you should be able to get a good handle on the details of a well-insulated slab. (I think the key is to insulate the perimeter and below, but don't take my word on it. Check here as well: (https://www.finehomebuilding.com/item/31642/how-to-insulate-a-slab-foundation)
as written by a fellow Texan.
Good luck.
Chuck