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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.

Installing a Cable-Rail System

Cables and intermediate aluminum pickets create a taut, clean-looking railing.
5 Steps to Laying Out Concrete Piers

Use some easy math and common measuring tools to get your deck foundation in the right place.
The Complete Guide to Building a Hardwood Deck

Build a modern, low-slung living space sitting on simple concrete footings and wrapped in hardwood decking and cable railings.
What’s the best way to fix a crack in a foundation wall?

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…
A Carpenter’s House – Extended Gallery

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

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?

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

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

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

During a rot repair job, I found an early attempt at a rainscreen wall.