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Charles Bickford

Before he joined the staff of Fine Homebuilding, Charles Bickford worked as a finish carpenter, cabinetmaker, and remodeler. After more than 18 years at the magazine, he says, “I feel privileged to work with some of the most talented carpenters and designers in the country and then to have the opportunity to pass on their knowledge to our audience.” His interests include architectural photography, Italian racing bicycles, and trying to build the guitars he can’t afford to buy.

The Complete Guide to Building a Deck: Woodbury, Conn., 2015

March 25, 2015

Build a modern living space with hardwood decking and cable railings.
What’s the best way to fix a crack in a foundation wall?

March 4, 2015

Q: Last year, I found a crack in my foundation that started at the floor and then extended 3-1/2-ft. up the wall. I tried drilling into the crack with a 1/2-in.…
A Carpenter’s House – Extended Gallery

February 27, 2015

Additional photos from the featured in Fine Homebuilding No. 250, "A Carpenter's House"
Spoiler Alert! Preview of the Best Traditional House from the upcoming Houses issue

January 23, 2015

A stone farmhouse built in the late 1700's has been restored to a modern version of its former glory
Can You Paint Ceramic Tile?

January 15, 2015

Faced with an messy demolition and potentially expensive tile, many homeowners are tempted to cover ugly tile with paint. Probably not a good idea, at least according to two experts.
Set Up a Cut station for Efficient Production Flooring

October 22, 2014

Tips for keeping a jobsite organized and efficient
Katrin Klingenberg, Passive House Pioneer

September 10, 2014

This architect is leading the movement for affordable energy-efficient homes in the United States.
Colonial-era rainscreen?

June 2, 2014

During a rot repair job, I found an early attempt at a rainscreen wall.
Ten Great Home Improvement Resources

April 25, 2014

Sources for home improvement materials and information
What’s the biggest private house in the world?

April 22, 2014

We're talking about the houses that have acres of roof, whose kitchens and master suites have separate zip codes.