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Issue 214

On the Cover

How it Works: Wall Framing

When constructed correctly, a house’s frame resists a variety of loads, such as wind and snow.

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Features

  • How To Build Housed-Stringer Stairs

    Treads and risers that are glued and wedged into routed stringers are tighter and more stable than conventionally framed stairs.

  • The Best Practices for Lead-Safe Remodeling

    It’s required by law for professional contractors, but working lead-safe should be a priority for everyone.

  • how to frame straight walls
    A Slick Approach to Straightening Walls

    String and springboards make it easy to get walls straight and the second floor off to a great start.

  • For Great Tile Floors, Layout Is Everything

    Take time to snap a few chalklines and find where the cuts are, and tiling becomes an easier task with better results.

  • A Practical Look at Deep-Energy Retrofits
    A Practical Look at Deep-Energy Retrofits

    Cutting a home’s energy use by 50% to 90% is a worthy goal, but the extreme costs keep it out of reach for many. We take a look at the most cost-effective alternatives.

  • Asphalt Roof
    Will Your Next Asphalt Roof Last a Lifetime?

    Asphalt shingles have come a long way since the advent of the simple three-tab. Now, durable laminated shingles dominate the market.

Article

  • 4 Quick Cabinet Upgrades

    Improve storage and style for a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.

  • Taping Tricky Transitions

    Apply innovative products to difficult drywall corners for a faster, easier, and more durable job.

  • Live Tall on a Small Footprint

    Two projects smaller than 1500 sq. ft. illustrate how to design a comfortable home with little impact on the site.

What is the Difference

  • Pex Tubing 101

    Understand the difference between PEX-a, PEX-b, and PEX-c.

Building Skills

  • Using Extension Ladders Safely

    What's the most dangerous tool that you work with? If your first thought is a power tool—probably a tablesaw—then the answer might surprise you.

Master Carpenter

  • Three Ways to Lay Out an Elliptical Curve

    Ellipses can provide striking, graceful curves on a building, but they can be tricky to build.

Drawing Board

  • Windows From the Inside Out

    Windows may be crucial to the exterior appearance of a house, but they play a vital role on the interior as well, and not just because they let in natural light.

Energy Smart Details

  • Airtight Drywall

    These energy-smart details will help you build a tight house with ordinary drywall, caulk, and gaskets.

Tailgate

  • Tailgate: Will Beemer, Timber Framer

    From concrete eco-structures in Arizona to the post-and-beam heritage of New England, Will Beemer has built a teaching career that strikes a balance between the past and future of home building.

More? View Past Issues

Ask the Experts

  • Rain-Screen-Siding Details for Gable Ends
  • Taping New Drywall to Existing, Painted Drywall
  • Painting Fiber Cement: Is It Like Wood?

Readers Tips

  • Using a Jointer to Duplicate a Handrail
  • Edge-Planing Windows on a Workmate
  • Stealth ladder hauling
  • Toilet-Seat Wrench
  • Stackable Site-Built Sawhorses
  • How to Snake Wires With a Tape Measure

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 320 - Dec 2023/Jan 2024
    • How to Reuse Salvaged Wood
    • Chainsaw Retrofit and Energy Performance
    • Maximize HVAC Efficiency
  • Issue 319 - November 2023
    • Nearly Net-Zero ADU
    • An Easy Approach to Coffered Ceilings
    • Understanding Types of Roof Vents
  • Issue 318 - October 2023
    • Make Mudsills Square and Level
    • Turn Up the Heat With Induction Cooktops
    • The Fine Homebuilding Interview: Lloyd Alter
  • Issue 317 - Aug/Sept 2023
    • Finishing Drywall With Seamless Results
    • A Flat Roof in a Cold Climate
    • Compact Cordless Shop Vacs
  • Issue 316 - July 2023
    • Timber-Framed Solar Canopies
    • Build a Transom Above a Stock Door
    • Understanding Toilet Design and Efficiency

Fine Homebuilding

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