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Mike Guertin

The only thing Fine Homebuilding editorial adviser Mike Guertin likes better than building new homes is remodeling old ones. After 35 years, he’s still challenged every day to find more-efficient ways to build things better. Like a true Rhode Islander, he doesn’t take jobs farther than 15 minutes from his home in East Greenwich. Mike’s written over 100 articles for FHB and appears in dozens of videos.

Weaving a Vine Design into Sidewall Shingles

May 23, 2018

An eye-catching cedar shingle design may look complicated, but it's easy.
Put a Rainscreen Intake Vent Over Windows and Doors

May 18, 2018

Screen crimp, stapled around a rainscreen matrix, is easy to install and necessary to keep insects out.
Ice Barriers, Explained: What Materials Can You Use?

May 16, 2018

The code (IRC) lists two options for an Ice Barrier and others may be acceptable too.
Ice Barriers, Explained: Do You Need Them or Not?

May 16, 2018

The IRC has a table that lists whether or not an ice barrier is required. But not all roofing requires an ice barrier, even in ice dam territory.
Ice Barriers, Explained: How Far Up Roof Slope?

May 16, 2018

Three feet probably won't meet the code.
A Guide to Better Boot Flashings

May 11, 2018

Use a better plumbing vent pipe boot flashing to last the lifetime of a new roof.
Vent Flashing Done Right

May 8, 2018

Back up roof vent boots with flashing, counterflashing, and proper shingling to prevent leaks.
Better Boot Flashings Last Longer, Seal Better

May 8, 2018

If ordinary boot flashings are not durable, shouldn't we use better designed and manufactured ones?
Quick Fix for a Job-Site Tarp

April 30, 2018

Ripped out grommet on a tarp? Find a small stone and fix it.
Drip Cap Design and Installation

April 25, 2018

The lowly drip cap needs to be taken more seriously to prevent leaks and rot.