FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter Instagram Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In
The Fine Homebuilding Podcast

Podcast Episode 181: Ethical Business Practices, Pass-Through Windows, and Cutting Asbestos Shingles

The Fine Homebuilding editors talk about doing right by your clients, opening up a kitchen to the outdoors, following EPA guidelines when removing asbestos siding, and more.

By Patrick McCombe, Kiley Jacques, Matthew Millham

Follow the Fine Homebuilding Podcast on your favorite app. Subscribe now and don’t miss an episode:

Watch on YouTube

Patrick, Matt, and Kiley start the episode with updates on several personal projects before attempting to help a few listeners with their own remodeling questions. Plus they dig into the topic of contractor ethics and the reputation the construction industry has for shifty business practices––an issue that conscientious builders have to overcome on a regular basis.

 


Reader Feedback

 

Double-decker dormerDoug writes:  Regarding the blue “dormer wonderland”, although I agree with all the comments made, it did bring to mind something my barber said many decades ago. There was something he liked that I didn’t and he said “that’s why they make red cars, and blue cars, and brown cars, and green cars…” There is something for every one’s taste.

 

 

 


Editor Projects

 

Kiley’s outdoor projects: Wood shed complete; painting shed, removing rust from siding

 

  • Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
  • CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover
  • Spray & Forget

Matt: Update on his shed roof​

 


Question 1: Are there clear guidelines for ethics in the construction business?

 

Dave from Plainfield, VT writes: I am interested in hearing is you all’s take on contractor ethics. Period. Contractors don’t always have the best rep as ethical folks, and for sure there are bad actors out there. For extra sure there are a lot more of us trying our level best (pun? maybe intended) to do what is right and do great work. Of course, there’s legality, but I’m not as interested in that as I am in simply being an ethical person, and doing what is fair and just. Sometimes that means I take a hit on behalf of the client, sometimes it means I hold firm and stick up for myself. It’s a fine line to be sure.

What do you think?

Thanks for all you’re doing for the trades and for #Keep(ing)CraftAlive!

 

Related links:

  • HOUSE: by Tracy Kidder
  • Carpentry Ethics – Framer Larry Haun considers the difference between building a perfect house and giving a client the most for their money

 


Question 2: Is there such thing as a pocket window?

 

Corey and Megan from Roanoke, VA write: Hello FHB team.  I have loved your podcasts and truly believe you bring all kinds of helpful things to the table.

My wife and I are about to start on a kitchen remodel for a house we moved into 6 months ago.  We’ve worked with a GC and a designer to ensure our kitchen is truly a functional space as we both like to cook as do our kids. We’re doing the full nine yards: moving some walls to optimize the space, relocating the sink and island, new cabinets and appliances.

I’d like your input on the following:
We have a triple bank of windows that we found were racked during the home inspection, so they’re being replaced during this renovation.

During this project we plan to add a screened porch with bar-type seating on the inside and outside of this window so when the windows are open there is a pass through to the porch (inspiration photo:)

Casement windows will cause issues when swung out and looking for your opinions on either an accordion-type window that folds onto itself when open, or a window that looks like a traditional double-hung but swings up like the ones made by the Foldup window (foldupwindow.com). Appears like the Foldup version can be quite wide and can fold either in or out.  Obviously looking for a window that’s strong over time, easy to open/close, and energy efficient.

Would love to hear your thoughts or maybe you have other options we should consider.
Thanks FHB team!

Related links:

  • ProTech Pocket Windows
  • NanaWall Folding Windows
  • NanaWall Reinvents the Kitchen

 


Question 3: How can I safely and effectively cut a hole in a wall with asbestos shingles?

 

Noah from Hudson Valley NY writes: Hi Fine Homebuilders, I am a fan of the show, just left a raving review.

I’m fairly new to the construction field and have been using my skills to improve my 1900 farmhouse in NY’s Hudson Valley.

I’ve purchased gable end vents to install in the currently unvented attic (fiberglass insulation is between the attic floor joists)but it requires cutting through brittle asbestos shingle siding. Is there a method for doing this without destroying the shingles? And could you please review health/safety precautions for dealing with this material?

Thanks!

Related links:

  • Fine Homebuilding Forum asbestos question
  • The Best Practices for Lead-Safe Remodeling
  • Ask the Experts: Should I close off my gable vents?

 


Question 4: Why is my inspector asking for a vapor barrier over my insulation?

 

Anna from Atlanta writes: Hi guys, This is a story of one thing leading to another. When installing skylights in our living room, which required us to remove the sheetrock & insulation in the vicinity, we discovered that the ends of some of the ceiling joists were rotten (missing). This led us to notice the rotten top plate of the fireplace. We followed the damaged studs all the way down the wall. We reframed the face of the fireplace and am happy to say it is framing is inspector approved.

The inspector told us that he wanted to see (for the future rough insulation inspection) a vapor barrier on the Rockwool we used in the chimney chase. There was no insulation in the chase before… and we decided to go with Rockwool over fiberglass batt insulation (which would have had its own integrated vapor barrier of course) for this location. My question is this: what should we use for the vapor barrier? I can’t seem to find a clear answer online for this specific location inside the chimney case.

We are located in Atlanta and the home is a ’70/’80’s contemporary. Thanks so much! I love the podcast!

Related links:

  • Do I Need a Vapor Retarder?
  • How it Works: Vapor Drive
  • Questions and Answers About Air Barriers

 


Mike Guertin Keeping Craft Alive
Mike Keeping Craft Alive

#KeepCraftAlive

 

Support the trades!

Buy a #KeepCraftAlive hat or t-shirt!

 

 


This episode of the podcast is brought to you by Windsor Windows & Doors, Protective Products, LP Outdoor Building Solutions, and Deck Wise

This episode of the Fine Homebuilding Podcast is brought to you by Windsor Windows & Doors. Put your personal touch on your next home construction or renovation project by using Windsor Windows & Doors. Offering a full line of Wood Clad, Cellular PVC and Vinyl Windows and Doors, our products come in a wide variety of colors, finishes and optional accessories that give you the perfect look to match your home’s style. With our quality construction and industry leading warranty, Windsor Windows & Doors are built to last. Get started on your next project by visiting WindsorWindows.com and find an authorized Windsor distributor near you.

Also brought to you by Protective Products:
The nation’s oldest, most trusted, direct-to-you supplier of Surface Protection and Dust Control.  From industry-leading Econo Runner, protection for most hard flooring, to Zipwall, the contractor’s choice for building quick containment areas, Protective Products works with you to keep your jobsites protected and your customers happy.  Show that you care about preserving your quality craftsmanship with their full line of Surface Protection and Dust Control Solutions, see it all at ProtectiveProducts.com.

And LP Outdoor Building Products:
Whether you’re looking to add a storage unit or an art studio to your backyard, LP offers beautiful and durable products that can help you turn your shed into a stylish extension of your home. Because at the end of the day, your shed says a lot about who you are. Why not shed it your way? For inspiration and to learn more, visit LPShed.com.

The Fine Homebuilding Podcast is also brought to you by DeckWise:
Does your hardwood deck need a makeover? Bring back the luster of the day it was first installed. Let DeckWise reverse time and erase its dullness to make the wood grains burst with natural beauty again. Start with our Wood Cleaner and Brightener and finish with our eco-friendly water-base formula, WiseCoat, or our low VOC Ipe Oil hardwood finish. Protect and preserve your deck to keep it looking brand new this summer! For more info on these products visit DeckWise.com.

 

We hope you will take advantage of a great offer for our podcast listeners: A special 20% off the discounted rate to subscribe to the Fine Homebuilding print magazine. That link goes to finehomebuilding.com/podoffer.

The show is driven by our listeners, so please subscribe and rate us on iTunes or Google Play, and if you have any questions you would like us to dig into for a future show, shoot an email our way: [email protected]. Also, be sure to follow Justin Fink and Fine Homebuilding on Instagram, and “like” the magazine on Facebook. Note that you can watch the show above, or on YouTube at the Fine Homebuilding YouTube Channel.

The Fine Homebuilding Podcast embodies Fine Homebuilding magazine’s commitment to the preservation of craftsmanship and the advancement of home performance in residential construction. The show is an informal but vigorous conversation about the techniques and principles that allow listeners to master their design and building challenges.

 

Other related links

  • All FHB podcast show notes: FineHomebuilding.com/podcast.
  • #KeepCraftAlive T-shirts support scholarships for building trades students. So go order some shirts at KeepCraftAlive.org.
  • The direct link to the online store is here.

Sign up to get the Fine Homebuilding Podcast newsletter and special offers delivered to your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters
×

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

New Feature

Fine Homebuilding Forums

Ask questions, offer advice, and share your work

View Comments

  1. homerr | May 24, 2019 01:17pm | #1

    RE question 2: how about a short (2 panel) insulated overhead style door - like a garage door? Similar to pic.

    https://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/cd912d470de65e66_4-6365/home-design.jpg

    Jeff

  2. Jwwalk0509 | May 30, 2019 03:48pm | #2

    Magic erasers are simply melamine foam (a very very high grit abrasive).

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melamine_foam

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

More The Fine Homebuilding Podcast

View All
  • Podcast 567: Soundproofing, Garage Doors, and Rotted Balconies
  • Podcast 567: Members-only Aftershow — Andrew Zoellner’s House
  • Podcast 565: Honeycombed Concrete, Owner-Built Cabin, and Keeping Craft Alive During Soul-Bashing Work
  • Podcast 565: Members-only Aftershow — Permanent Wood Foundations
View All

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

Details of Using Stone Wool Insulation

In this video, learn what stone wool insulation is, how to calculate and install it in wall cavities, and why it is so effective.

Featured Video

SawStop's Portable Tablesaw is Bigger and Better Than Before

The 10-in. Jobsite Saw PRO has a wider table, a new dust-control port, and a more versatile fence, along with the same reliable safety mechanism included in all SawStop tablesaws.

Related Stories

  • Podcast 561: Members-only Aftershow—All About Windows
  • A Builder’s Guide to Window Selection
  • Codes for Crawlspaces
  • The Fine Homebuilding Interview: Katrin Klingenberg

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Video

View All Videos
  • Combat Extreme Weather With a FORTIFIED Roof
  • Vents for Wildfire Protection
  • Podcast 541: Small-Project Discrimination, Control Layers, and Air-Quality Monitors
  • Podcast 533: Missing-Middle Housing, Collateral Damage From Demo, and Midwest BS Symposium
View All

Windows

View All Windows Articles
  • Podcast 561: Members-only Aftershow—All About Windows
  • A Builder’s Guide to Window Selection
  • High-Performance Wall of Windows
  • Flashing a Window Using ZIP Tape
View All Windows Articles

BOOKS, DVDs, & MERCH

Shop the Store
  • Code Check Building 4th Edition
    Buy Now
  • 2022 Fine Homebuilding Archive
    Buy Now
  • Pretty Good House
    Buy Now
  • 2023 Tool Guide
    Buy Now
  • Shop the Store

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 315 - June 2023
    • How to Craft a Copper Roof
    • 5 Lessons from Building in a Cold Climate
    • The Advantages of Cellular PVC Siding
  • Issue 314 - April/May 2023
    • 7 Options for Countertops
    • Tool Test: Wood-Boring Bits
    • Critical Details for Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 313 - Feb/March 2023
    • Practical System for a Seismic Retrofit
    • Fine Homebuilding Issue #313 Online Highlights
    • Practical System for a Seismic Retrofit
  • Issue 312 - Dec 2022/Jan 2023
    • Tool Test: Cordless Tablesaws
    • Gray-Water System for a Sustainable Home
    • Insulate a Cape Roof to Avoid Ice Dams
  • Issue 311 - November 2022
    • 7 Steps to a Perfect Exterior Paint Job
    • Options for Smarter Home-Energy Tracking
    • The Fine Homebuilding Interview: James Metoyer

Fine Homebuilding

Follow

  • twitter
  • facebook
  • instagram
  • pinterest

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences

Taunton Network

  • Green Building Advisor
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Fine Gardening
  • Threads
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Copyright
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2023 The Taunton Press, Inc. All rights reserved.

X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Shop the Store

  • Books
  • DVDs
  • Taunton Workshops

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • twitter
  • facebook
  • instagram
  • pinterest

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in