Andy Engel

Since 1979, Andy Engel has either been a carpenter wishing he was a journalist or a journalist wishing he was a carpenter. A former FHB editor, he currently works as a remodeling carpenter and as a freelance writer. Through his career, Andy has nailed together every part of a house from footing forms to finish stairs. He’s also remodeled two houses for his family, and built two others.

Strengthening Notched Floor Joists
Beef up joists by fastening plywood or adding bridging or blocking.
I Wish Tools Were More Expensive
Andy Engel reflects on the price and durability of tools over the years since he entered the trades in 1979.
Grout Bag to Fill Gaps
Solve gap problems using a contractor's version of a heavy duty pastry bag.
Bubbles in Membrane Under Metal Roof
Bubbles in roof membrane may not affect the appearance of the roof, but it could affect the underlayment performance.
Loading Engineered Joists
Andy Engel responds to a reader's question about how to properly secure storage racks to a ceiling with engineered joists.
Replacing a Damaged Clapboard
Use an oscillating multitool to remove and replace the cracked section.
Working With Tongue-and-Groove Boards
Focus on handling wood movement due to changes in humidity when installing wall paneling.
Fitting Out-of-Level Prehung Doors
Use these two methods for measuring and cutting to install a door when the floor isn't level.
Tips for Ordering Siding Materials
Learn how to calculate the wall area and account for window area, waste, and gable walls when determining how much siding to buy for a job.
How to Set Vinyl-Siding Starter Strips
After installing your vinyl soffits, fascia, and corner boards, the starter strips are the first step in covering walls with siding panels.

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