Issue 190
Features
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Build a Knockdown Router Table
A detailed, scalable parts drawing serves as the blueprint for your own router table.
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Finishing a Masterpiece
A raw, hand-carved fireplace surround receives a deep ebony finish
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Concrete Countertops, Up Close
A primer on building three-part forms for custom installations
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A Sweeping Handrail for a Centerpiece Stair
A pitch-block jig and a deadman stand are two keys in transforming a jumble of parts into a continuous handrail.
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Thrifty Solutions for an Outdated Kitchen
Challenged by a tight budget, a contracting couple finds five affordable ways to gain luxury, convenience, and space.
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A Knockdown Router Table
This interlocking design needs no fasteners and stores flat.
Article
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Where Do You Want the Blocking?Five tradesmen weigh in on where to put solid blocking for stair skirts, grab-bar anchors, and everything else the code leaves out.
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Smart House for a Steep SiteDespite zoning restrictions, a simple floor plan and traditional materials unite in a design of understated elegance.
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Belt Sanders Get BetterThe newest models offer improvements in comfort, convenience, and control.
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A New Roof Over the Old OneThis homeowner found that replacing a worn out roof provided a good opportunity to insulate above the sheathing before installing new roofing.
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9 Common Wiring Mistakes and Code ViolationsSome are illegal, some are dangerous, and some are both—but all are simple to avoid.
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Home Remedies for Energy NosebleedsWith a little detective work, you can correct construction mistakes and cut energy bills by a third or more.
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A Concrete Countertop and Sink in a Single PourFormed and finished with off-the-shelf materials, a vanity top takes shape upside down.
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Quick Tips for Better Stair Building
A master stairbuilder shares five simple techniques that greatly improve staircase construction
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Sanding Frames for Belt Sanders
These add-on accessories keep sanders flat to prevent ugly gouges
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Sanding Stands Add Versatility to Belt Sanders
Sanding stand attachments turn a mobile tool into a benchtop workstation
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Building Concrete Countertop FormsThese three-part forms contain and shape the concrete mix
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Removing Concrete Countertop FormsOnce the pour cures, a surgical hand protects the unfinished surface
Cross Section
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More Web sites we like
Historic buildings in every state Settle down with this Web site and a cup of coffee, and you might never get to the Sunday paper. You’ll be amazed and inspired…
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Good news in the GulfFoot-dragging and finger-pointing have slowed the rebuilding process that began after hurricanes Katrina and Rita, which hit the Gulf Coast two years ago. The hurricanes wiped out a quarter of…
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Sheetrock & Shellac: Remodeling errors and triumphsJustin Fink reviews David Owen's latest book
Tools & Materials
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Rust-resistant air compressorX-Lite aluminum air compressor (EX8016)
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Hard-to-Miss Roof ShinglesA step-up from three-tab shingles, these architectural shingles offer superior wind resistance and long-lasting performance.
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Old woodworking files reappear8-in. Milled-tooth float files
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Bio-based wood sealerSoyguard
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More options for color-matched deck screwsHeadcote deck screws
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Flush cuts, with no bending necessaryFlush-Cut adapter
Letters
Finishing Touches
What is the Difference
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What's the Difference: Green lightbulbsCompact fluorescents and light-emitting diodes are energy-efficient alternatives to standard bulbs
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What's the Difference: Premixed All-Purpose Joint CompoundHeavyweight, lightweight, and midweight types are readily available and can be used straight from the bucket.
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What's the Difference: Portable job-site heaters
Convection, radiant, and forced air models allow work to go on when temperatures get low
