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Michael Maines

As a residential designer with a background in carpentry and engineering, FHB contributing editor Mike Maines pays attention to the practical, hardworking parts of a house, from materials such as mineral wool to spaces such as laundry closets. For design inspiration, he draws on nature and traditional, vernacular architecture. When not designing, Mike likes to work in his woodshop or tend to his homestead in rural Maine. www.michaelmaines.com

In Favor of Wood-Fiber Insulation

Learn about the benefits, properties, and installation methods of this unique insulation developed in Germany by companies like Gutex, STEICO, and Best Wood SCHNEIDER.
Understanding Rainscreens

These construction details can improve the durability of exterior walls by allowing rain and moist air to escape from behind your home's siding.
Minimizing Concrete in a Slab-on-Grade Home

Whether your goal is to cut construction costs, minimize environmental impact, or both, there are practical ways to build a home with less concrete.
Is Using Closed-Cell Foam Worth the Trade-Offs?

This insulation material is popular for its high R-value and good air-sealing and vapor-blocking properties, but cost, health, and environmental concerns cause some builders to have second thoughts.
Climate Change for Builders: The Biggest Opportunity

Faced with consequences equivalent to a giant asteroid set to hit the earth in 10 to 50 years, we designers and builders owe it to the future to do our part—and we need to start right now.
How to Choose Black Siding

If you want to paint your siding a dark color, you have to select the material carefully
Retrofitting Foam Insulation on a Roof

Recommended reasons for removing a roof's shingles.
Venting a Bath Fan in a Cold Climate

Use a high-powered fan, a large-diameter duct with the shortest run possible, and wrap the pipe with insulation
Get the Right Rigid Foam

Foam-board insulation can boost R-value, slow thermal bridging, and control condensation—but you better choose the right type.
The Beloved Farmhouse

Understand the hallmarks of this informal style, whether you’re designing a new home or remodeling a classic.