What better way to learn about building and remodeling homes than to watch videos of pros demonstrating time-tested techniques? These are the most popular tips and techniques we published this past year, but there are plenty more how-to videos where these came from. Enjoy!

10. How to Install an Arc-Fault Breaker

Swapping out a standard breaker for an arc-fault breaker is a straightforward process. Learn exactly how to do it, step-by-step, in this Mastered in a Minute video.

Watch: How to Install an Arc-Fault Breaker

9. Tie In to Cast-Iron Pipe With PVC

No-hub couplings make it easy to tie in to existing cast-iron drain/waste/vent lines with new PVC.

Watch: Tie In to Cast-Iron Pipe with PVC

8. How to Transfer Hinge Locations to a Replacement Door

When fitting a new door slab to an old jamb, laying out the hinge locations is critical to the door’s operation. Learn how accurate measurements and marks help doors swing easy.

Watch: How to Transfer Hinge Locations to a Replacement Door

7. How to Mortise Hinges With a Chisel

Although a router and jig can be used, mortising hinges with a chisel is a solid, time-tested method. All it takes is a sharp chisel, a steady hand, and a mallet.

Watch: How to Mortise Hinges With a Chisel

6. Scribing Made Simple

In this video, we’ll show you some basic techniques, but all it takes is a bit of practice to move up to the more difficult versions.

Watch: Scribing Made Simple

5. How to Cut Window and Door Openings With a Router

Using a router and panel pilot bit is a fast and accurate method to cut out window and door openings. We’ll show you how it’s done in this Mastered in a Minute video.

Watch: How to Cut Window and Door Opening With a Router

4. How to Add a New Outlet to an Existing Run

Splicing a new receptacle in the middle of a run is simple. Watch this video and learn how it’s done.

Watch: How to Add a New Outlet to an Existing Run

3. How to Wire an Instagram-Worthy Electrical Subpanel

In this video, electrician C.J. Nielsen demonstrates how to wire up a subpanel that looks so good, you won’t want to put a cover on it (though, if the inspector checks in, you’ll have to).

Watch: How to Wire and Instagram-Worthy Electrical Subpanel

2. How to Transition From Copper to PEX

Transitioning from copper to PEX is a common thing to do when adding new supply lines to an existing home. Sweat adapters make this transition simple. Learn more about how it’s done in this video.

Watch: How to Transition From Copper to PEX

1. EZ Soffit Vent

Watch this video to see why the EZ Soffit Vent, distributed by Panasonic, is a real solution for a long-standing problem with soffit-mounted bath-vent outlets.

Watch: EZ Soffit Vent

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

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Reliable Crimp Connectors

These reliable, high-quality connectors from Wirefy work on 10-22-gauge wire have heat-shrink insulation to keep out water and road salt.

Buy at Amazon

Affordable IR Camera

This camera is super useful for tracking down air leaks in buildings. The one-hand pistol grip arrangement frees your other hand for steadying yourself while maneuvering tricky job sites.

Buy at Amazon

8067 All-Weather Flashing Tape

Available in 2- to 12-in. widths, this is a good general-purpose flashing tape that sticks well to most things. It features a two-piece release paper, water-shedding layers, and good UV resistance.

Buy at Amazon