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Gary M. Katz

Contributing editor Gary M. Katz is a licensed general contractor in California, a trim-carpentry expert, a book and magazine author, an educator, and a professional photographer. Over a 30-year career, Gary has worked on tract housing, custom homes, and commercial construction. He also oversees the Gary Katz Roadshow, which offers seminars at lumberyards, and his online magazine, THISisCarpentry.com.

Video: A Better Joint for Beaded Casings

July 9, 2018

Jack miters are part butt joint and part miter, and they can be cut by hand or production-style with a router and shop-made jig.
Two Ways to Cut Jack Miters

July 5, 2018

Part miter, part butt joint, this hybrid for beaded casing is elegant and stable.
Today’s Best Exterior Trim

July 11, 2015

A veteran carpenter sorts through 10 of the latest engineered options.
The Craft of Coffered Ceilings, Ep. 4: Installing the Components

July 17, 2014

In the final episode, Gary and his crew place the nailing backers, then nail up the soffits, bed and crown moldings that make up each coffer beam.
The Craft of Coffered Ceilings

May 14, 2014

A trim carpenter problem-solves a tricky installation for this sought-after detail
Do home inspections need to be inspected themselves?

April 23, 2014

Gary Katz recounts his personal experience with realities of home inspection
How to Install a Sliding Barn Door

November 7, 2013

Interior sliders are a stylish and functional alternative to pocket doors
Building Craftsman-Style Brackets

September 12, 2013

Add a custom touch where your roof needs a little support.
Z-Articulating Cap Sill

May 6, 2013

With the Endura Products Z-Articulating Cap Sill, the sill cap rotates up and interlocks with the door bottom, creating a weatherproof seal.
Router Jig for Cutting Tapered Flutes

March 11, 2010

Learn how to use a router in combination with a simple ramp to produce period-accurate fluted columns.